IU ranks as best value in public colleges

For the first time, IU is in the top 30 for Kiplinger’s Personal Finance Magazine’s rankings of the “100 Best Values in Public Colleges.”

IU is number 28 overall and third among Big Ten universities.

The rankings recognize public colleges and universities that have “strong academics at affordable prices” and will be in the magazine’s February issue that is on newsstands Tuesday.

IU’s rise in the rankings is because of the improved academics including entrance exams scores and retention and graduation rates, said Jane Bennett Clark, Kiplinger’s senior associate editor, in a press release.

Although the overall cost for in-state students rose, the cost to attend IU after need-based aid was applied is less than a year ago, Clark explained in the release.

The rankings are based on data from more than 500 public, four-year colleges and universities. In addition to the rankings is an article that notes the effects of the recession on public colleges and universities including cuts in government support and greater demand for financial aid.

“While state budget cuts are creating challenges for all of public higher education, IU Bloomington continues to provide academic excellence while remaining accessible and affordable,” said IU Vice Provost for Enrollment Management Roger Thompson.

The only other Indiana school included in the report was Purdue University, which ranked number 46 overall. For the full rankings, visit: http://www.kiplinger.com/.