McCain

• Supports expanding virtual learning by reforming the “Enhancing Education Through Technology Program.” Said he would target $500 million in current federal funds to build new virtual schools and support the development of online course offerings for students.
• Said he would allocate $250 million to support states that commit to expanding online education opportunities.
• Proposes offering $250 million to help students pay for online tutors or enroll in virtual schools.
• Said low-income students would be eligible to receive up to $4,000 to enroll in an online course, SAT/ACT prep course, credit recovery or tutoring services offered by a virtual provider.

Obama

• In 2007, Obama sponsored an amendment, which became law, to the America Competes Act that established a mentoring program to support women and underrepresented groups as they progress through education programs proposed by the Department of Energy.
• Obama will fight to make sure women have equal opportunities and access from pre-kindergarten through graduate school.
• Proposes scholarships that will cover four years of undergraduate or two years of graduate teacher education.
• Proposes an annual $4,000 tuition credit that will cover two-thirds of the tuition of an average public college and make community college completely free in America. Says he would expand the Pell Grant and lower interest rates on the existing federal student loan programs.