Since most kids don't get much of a real education in the public high schools today, most are unready for 'college' as we knew it anyway. Many can't read, most can't spell and have to really dig in if they want to learn. If they haven't been brought up in a home environment that values education, they have to do it on their own. It isn't easy and it puts a of of stress on them to "find themselves" - children in an adult world ready to eat their lunch. Yes, there are many exceptions. That's not the point, nor the rule.
First two years should be free, Some courses mandatory, e.g., English, Social Studies, Basic math through Algebra, WRITING - by hand (cursive). They could avoid such classes by passing a comprehensive test, but not opt out just because they think they've been exposed already.
If qualified in that step, they can choose other career-oriented courses - pre-law, nursing, medical assistant, Truck-transportation mechanics and driving (think how much of our society depends on the reliable delivery of goods).
Save back real 'finishing' college for the next 2 to 4 years. Government can help qualified students in that period with fixed-rate low-interest loans they only get if they stay in school and proceed at a normal pace. Business can grow its next crop of skilled workers and managers in this fertile ground.
Not everyone needs, wants or can handle a 4-year degree program of education. Some have to grow into it, such as my 32 year-old granddaughter. She fought it for 14 years. My 22 year old grandson has a paid-for college education waiting for him, but nobody can get him to enroll. He eeks out a living working a non-union job in a restaurant with a zero goal. But he likes surfing and hanging out with his buddies. He's very good looking, but a number of prospective girl friends have thrown him over for his lack of ambition. Maybe by 32 HE will wake up and smell the coffee.
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