"The most important thing for your success is fit. It is best to start at the school where you plan to graduate. And, It is critical that you visit a school before enrolling so that you can be ready to take advantage of all the opportunities that universities offer you."
—Micah Howe, admissions counselor (California) at Western Oregon University
The rising cost of college is no secret—especially for students looking to go out of state. Fortunately, many states offer reciprocity agreements that allow students to attend college out of state while paying in-state tuition. This map represents the four major tuition reciprocity compacts in the United States, plus some other opportunities.
New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Washington DC do not belong to any reciprocity compact, but they offer tuition discounts all their own. Contact your counselor or prospective school’s financial aid department for more info.
Two states—North Dakota and South Dakota—belong to both the Western Undergraduate Exchange and Midwestern Student Exchange.
"You may qualify for scholarships and grants based on academic achievement, talent, or financial need. At The University of Tampa, 92 percent of students receive financial aid. Learn more at www.ut.edu/financialaid."
—Jackie LaTorella, director of financial aid at The University of Tampa
A Financial Aid Story
- Estimated costs for 2015–2016: $23,679*
- Expected Family Contribution: $0
- Financial Need: $23,679
- *Full-time out-of-state tuition plus double-occupancy room/board and 20-meal plan.
State awards, private scholarships, and institutional funds helped make up Tim’s financial aid package:
- Western Undergraduate Exchange (in-state tuition voucher) $5,158
- Scholarship from Tim’s church $2,500
- Presidential Scholarship $3,000
- Pell Grant $5,550
- Federal Student Loan $5,550
- Federal Work-Study $3,550
- Total Financial Aid Package $25,308
- Tim can use leftover funds to reduce his loans or purchase books and supplies.
