State Universities & Out-of-State Yields
I have begun to hear reports from members—and colleges—across the United States that indicate an unusual year shaping up for state colleges. Most have reported overall increases in applications, and it appears, from what I’m hearing, that it is in-state applicants driving this increase. Out-of-state applications appear to be about even with years past.
The increase among in-state students should come as no surprise, as the current economy has all families looking harder at in-state options as well as other choices that might be sweetened with financial assistance.
But I am hearing that while out-of-state APPLICATIONS are even, the number choosing to enroll has fallen. The result for many of these state universities is two-fold. First, many are going much deeper into their pool of wait-listed students. Second, there are major budgetary implications. While many states mandate a significant number of their own in-state applicants based on tax-payer support, it is the higher-paying distant applicants that universities must rely on to balance their books.
A serious long-term decline in out-of-state students means a real loss of income. Aggravating this loss is that it comes at the same time that states are unable to increase support for colleges, and in many places the subsidies for state universities is being cut or facing that possibility should the economy remain weak within that state.
That’s what I’ve been hearing. I welcome comments from colleges and consultants letting others know what you are hearing in your state.
Posted by Mark Sklarow, Executive Director, IECA
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