This is part of the reason.
The other part, which I think is really the prime issue, is the availability of gubmint (taxpayer) money.
In GA we have the HOPE scholarship. At first it paid for everything IIRC. But, as with all gubmint programs, it had a negative impact: grade inflation.
Teachers in HS were under pressure to give As so Susie, Tinisha and Jomeka could get into college for free. Problem is they weren't qualified academically for college.
Had a friend as a comptroller at a college. Told me the bulk of students were in remedial classes just to get caught up so they might pass a regular freshmen level class. All covered by the "scholarship".
By the sophomore year over half had flunked out. Wasted money.
Now, because the program is inundated with unqualified students the scholly was cut back and some of the requirements changed.
Want to make college more affordable? Get gubmint out of the financing of college.
“Want to make college more affordable? Get gubmint out of the financing of college.”
Agreed.