Debunking The Myth: Choosing a Private School Won't Leave You Pennyless
Private Schools More Affordable Than Most Think
FAYETTE, Iowa (May 24, 2010) – It’s the time of year when graduating high school students are pressed to finalize decisions about which college they will attend in the fall. As students and their families contemplate costs, many are under the misconception that private schools are unaffordable. In reality, many private universities are a bargain, making them well within reach of the average American family.
“Given today’s economic situation, students and families have to keep college costs manageable to survive financially,” said Dr. Alan Walker, president of Upper Iowa University (UIU). “But, it’s incorrect to assume private schools are fiscally out of reach, and doing so can eliminate viable options for students looking for a school that best fits their needs.”
According to the non-profit College Board, average published costs of private universities – including tuition, fees and living expenses – are between $35,000 and $36,000, however students don’t actually pay that much. In fact, with the right kind of financial aid, you can save up to 45 percent at schools like Upper Iowa University. This puts private school costs more in line with those of state colleges.
“One hundred percent of students at UIU’s Fayette, Iowa, campus receive financial aid from our school,” said Dr. Walker. “That kind of assistance opens the door to the advantages of a private school to many students who otherwise would not be able to afford them.”
Private colleges offer many benefits state schools do not, including smaller class sizes, lower student-to-professor ratios and highly customized academic programs to fit the individual goals of each student. For example at UIU, class sizes average 15 students and foster an environment of personal learning with 40 majors from which to choose.
“The bottom line is private colleges are an affordable option for most American families,” said Dr. Walker. “As funds wane and state schools are forced to raise tuition to make ends meet, I think we will see more students turning to private colleges.”
Tips for Students and Parents
- Start Federal: Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) before filling out any other financial aid forms. There are many community services available to help you complete this form.
- Speak with College Financial Aid Counselors: Working with a financial aid counselor is key. It’s their job to help you find the money you need.
- Consider Flexible Education Options: Financing college – with or without aid – often means holding down a job while earning a degree. Flexible education options like online classes or accelerated learning programs can help you balance work and school.
For more information, contact:
Mary Pettersen or Kate Cox
Cushman/Amberg Communications, Inc.
312/499-5241 or kcox@cushmanamberg.com
About Upper Iowa University
Founded in 1857, Upper Iowa University is a private, not-for-profit university providing undergraduate and graduate degree programs and leadership development opportunities to over 6,600 students—nationally and internationally—at its Fayette campus and learning centers worldwide. Upper Iowa University is a recognized innovator in offering accredited, quality programs through flexible, multiple delivery systems, including online and independent study. For more information, visit www.uiu.edu.