Question

education was free. that subject my father had written about repeatedly, as comprising his chief hope for us children, the essence of american opportunity, the treasure that no thief could touch, not even misfortune or poverty. it was the one thing that he was able to promise us when he sent for us; surer, safer than bread or shelter. on our second day i was thrilled with the realization of what this freedom of education meant... no application made, no questions asked, no examinations, rulings, exclusions; no machinations, no fees. the doors stood open for every one of us. why did antins father consider education an important pull factor for the family to join him in the us? us schools were more challenging than russian schools. russian schools focused more on exams and test results than learning. us schools were free and were not exclusive. russian schools were closing over safety concerns and problems with theft. done

Explanation:

The text mentions "Education was free" and "no application made...no exclusions; no fees. The doors stood open for every one of us", which directly relates to the idea that US schools were free and inclusive.

Answer:

US schools were free and were not exclusive.