Can You Get In-State Tuition At An Out-Of-State University?

Wed, October 11, 2023 11:30 AM

Did you know the cost of tuition to attend an out-of-state college can be as much as three times what it costs to attend an in-state school? Every year, students decide to apply to out-of-state colleges to pursue a certain major or sport or just to get as far away from home as possible. Unfortunately, this often comes with a crazy out-of-state tuition price. Many families struggle with the idea of paying so much more to have their student go to an out-of-state college, so what is a family supposed to do?

It all starts with doing your research. Some colleges offer academic scholarships that allow a student with good academic credentials to attend an out-of-state college for their in-state price. Depending on your region, if a student wanted to study a particular degree not offered in their state, they may be able to get in-state tuition at an out-of-state college. For example, a number of southern states participate in the Academic Common Market which offers in-state tuition for out-of-state schools based on certain degrees. Another example of a program that offers steep nonresident tuition savings for students is the Western Undergraduate Exchange program (WUE) where 160+ public colleges and universities participate.

Some colleges offer the option for a student to study abroad their freshman year, pay an out-of-state tuition rate that first year, and then finish up their remaining 3 years at the main campus paying the reduced in-state rate. Be sure to do your research because this option may exist at the colleges your student is considering.

Bottom line – finding options that work for your family’s budget and your student takes time and lots of research. To determine if a college might adjust its tuition rates for your son or daughter, visit their website or call their admissions office and be proactive in your quest to find the right colleges at the right price.

Have you figured out how your family is going to pay for your students dream college? If not, then Schedule a FREE 15-minute Discovery Zoom Meeting with me TODAY, so that I can walk you through your numbers and help you identify colleges that will fit your budget.