College Choices In Tough Economic Times

The economy is front and center of breakfast conversation, television, newspapers and other media. People are worried. Values of 529 College Savings Plans are dwindling. Parents can no longer tap the equity in their homes. The availability of credit is tight. College loan programs are shrinking. Household budgets have been turned upside down....... This scenario plays into the hands of State Universities. There are many terrific public universities and colleges. Many offer tremendous value to in state residents. Naturally, these public institutions will become intensely competitive because of their affordability. There will be an avalanche of applications to state universities in the fall of 2008. State universities will have to raise their standards and reject tons of applicants who would normally be well qualified in other years. High School seniors should carefully research their state university systems and prepare to apply to several first second and third tier state schools.