In the last few years, with the economy either in recession or struggling to recover from it, public colleges have experienced increases in applications from residents seeking a quality education at a reasonable cost. But budget crises in many states have meant funding cuts at most public universities, making it more difficult for students to get into popular state schools and resulting in larger classes and reduced services at many public institutions. Tuition at public schools is increasing more quickly than at private colleges. While some public universities offer scholarships, often using them to attract nonresident students who will still pay higher tuition than residents, some students are finding that private colleges are a financially viable option with many benefits.
In an effort to avoid losing students to lower-cost public schools, private colleges have been increasing merit-based aid in recent years, with 36 percent of private colleges awarding scholarships or grants based on merit. In 2010, the average tuition discount rate reached a record high of 42 percent among private colleges, meaning families, on average, are paying 58 percent of the regular tuition rate.
While the Ivies and other elite schools put their resources into need-based rather than merit aid, many highly selective colleges that are trying to compete for top students do offer scholarships. Merit scholarships are especially helpful in attracting students whose families don’t qualify for need-based financial aid but are unable or unwilling to pay more than $50,000 a year for college.
Highly selective colleges that offer merit scholarships include Davidson College, Emory University, Washington University, and the University of Southern California. These scholarships are very competitive, and students need to have outstanding academic records and test scores. They may be required to write additional scholarship essays and interview on campus. Some scholarships also consider demonstrated leadership and community service.
Other colleges offer guaranteed scholarships, so if you have a specified grade point average and test score, you will get a scholarship. Students who are National Merit Scholarship finalists are guaranteed scholarships at some schools. If you have reasonably good grades and test scores, and are willing to consider colleges that are not as well-known, you are likely to end up with some scholarship offers. Scholarships are generally renewable for three additional years, as long as you maintain the required grade point average.
Students who can afford to attend a private college without taking on huge debt may find that the educational experience is much more personal and engaging, and well worth the extra cost. You are more likely to find a student-centered environment, more meaningful interactions with professors and more access to support services at a smaller private college than at a large public institution.
At a time when many public universities are cutting classes and student services, having strong academic advising and support can enable students to successfully complete their degree requirements in four years. In addition to saving the cost of a fifth (or sixth) year in college, graduating in four years means that students start working and earning money earlier.
