Introduction
When the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe, it turned every sector upside down — and higher education was no exception. Community colleges, known for being flexible and affordable pathways to a better future, were hit especially hard. From sharp enrollment drops to deepening inequities, these institutions faced a cascade of challenges that changed the face of education for millions of students.
What made this impact even more complex was how uneven it was. While four-year universities found ways to stabilize, many two-year colleges saw their student populations dwindle — particularly among adult learners, low-income individuals, and students of color. As we move beyond the crisis years, the lasting effects of the pandemic continue to shape community college strategies, student behavior, and workforce readiness.
Description
The Sharp Drop in Enrollment
A Shift in Student Priorities
Before the pandemic, it was common for community college enrollment to rise during economic uncertainty. But COVID-19 didn’t follow that trend. Instead, many potential students chose work over school. Between fall 2019 and fall 2020, enrollment at community colleges dropped by 10%, with even more dramatic declines — up to 20% — among Black and Latino students.
The reasons were layered. Financial pressure, family responsibilities, and the shift to online learning pushed many students to put college on hold. For some, it was the cost of living; for others, it was simply not having a laptop or a reliable internet connection to attend class.
The Digital Divide and Remote Learning Gaps
Moving classes online may have been necessary, but it wasn’t easy for community colleges or their students. Many learners didn’t have access to the technology or internet required to keep up. Others struggled with the discipline needed to stay engaged in virtual environments — especially for programs that traditionally rely on hands-on instruction, like welding or culinary arts.
The Reality for Adult and Parenting Students
Balancing Family, Work, and College
With the average community college student being around 28 years old, many are juggling multiple responsibilities. Add in the sudden shift to remote schooling for their children, and it became nearly impossible for many to continue their education.
During lockdowns, parents often had to help their kids with virtual school while also trying to attend their own online classes — all with limited tech access and space. It’s no surprise that many hit pause on their education to focus on their families.
Mental Health and Burnout
The emotional toll was also heavy. Students reported high levels of stress and burnout from trying to manage everything at once. Without strong support systems in place — like campus childcare or flexible class options — many students simply couldn’t keep up.
Why Didn’t Enrollment Rebound After COVID?
Relief Programs and Job Market Expectations
Unlike past economic downturns, where job loss pushed people back into school, the federal relief programs during COVID gave people more financial breathing room. Some believed jobs would come back post-pandemic and decided college could wait.
Limits of Online Learning for Technical Skills
Another factor? Many community college programs are designed around hands-on learning. You can’t fully teach automotive repair or nursing online. That lack of in-person instruction discouraged students who needed those practical skills to move forward in their careers.
The Long Road to Rebuilding Enrollment
Budget Cuts and Program Limitations
Many community colleges had to make do with less during the pandemic. Budget cuts meant fewer program updates, less marketing, and limited capacity to offer new student supports. For first-time students especially, the lack of outreach or awareness made college feel out of reach.
Trust and Communication Gaps
Some students didn’t just walk away — they lost trust in the value of college itself. To bring them back, colleges need to clearly communicate how their programs lead to real jobs. That includes working closely with employers to ensure course content aligns with workforce needs.
What Can Be Done?
Stronger Partnerships with Employers
Employers have a role to play in rebuilding enrollment and preparing a workforce ready for today’s demands. By collaborating with educators to define skill needs and co-design programs, businesses can help ensure students are graduating ready to work.
But it’s not just about creating new programs. It’s about offering flexibility, resources, and real-world experience — especially for students who are balancing work, parenting, and school.
Reimagining Support for Today’s Learners
To truly bounce back, community colleges must meet students where they are. That means:
Offering hybrid learning that includes both hands-on and remote components
Providing more access to devices and internet
Supporting parenting students with childcare and flexible scheduling
Embedding career services into academic advising
Also See:Student Support Services at Community Colleges in 2025