Universities offering in-state tuition to out-of-state students

"It’s something that should have been done a long time ago. This is not a gimmick. This is good public policy."

Across the country, a bidding war of sorts has developed over prospective students seeking bargains in a bad economy. While some universities have long tried to lure students across state lines with lower tuitions, such incentives are gaining popularity as the nation’s financial meltdown has withered families’ college savings and home equity to help pay soaring education costs.

"We’re certainly seeing an acceleration of that" push to offer tuition cuts for its out-of-state scholars, said Bob Sevier, senior vice president of Iowa-based Stamats, a consultant to colleges and universities about marketing, student recruitment, fundraising and strategic planning.

Full Story: http://www.usatoday.com/money/perfi/college/2009-01-12-in-state-out_N.htm