You Can Afford Randolph College

Given today’s economic circumstances, many families are concerned about being able to afford a top college.

But you CAN afford the education you deserve.

Your college choice is one of the single most important decisions you will ever make - defining the direction of your life's path. Don't let financial concerns deny you the opportunity to make the investment that is right for you.

Common Mythconceptions About Private College Costs

Myth: Tuition at a private college is beyond reach, and a state school always costs less.

Reality: Many students pay considerably less than the published tuition price at a private college. The difference between public and private college tuition is far less than many families assume, thanks to significant merit and need-based grants and the Tuition Assistance Grant (TAG). Last year, private colleges awarded more than $270 million in grants and scholarships.

Myth: It’s easy for a high income family to afford a private college education. It’s much more difficult for a middle-class family.

Reality: Now more than ever, private colleges are protecting their financial aid budgets and enrolling students from all income levels. In fact, national studies have shown that students attending private colleges, on average, have a similar family income as those attending public colleges. In Virginia, private colleges enroll a higher percentage of federal Pell Grant recipients (typically students from families with incomes of $40,000 or less ) and minority students than public colleges.

Myth: Public or private college — it doesn’t make any difference.

Reality: Parents should compare the time it takes to graduate as well as overall graduation rates, class size, student/faculty ratio, and personal attention received by students. Private colleges will rank favorably.

Myth: There will be less assistance from government sources.

Reality: In fall 2008, Virginia Governor Tim Kaine’s proposed budget protected funding for the undergraduate TAG award, which provides an annual grant of $3,200 to Virginia residents attending a private college in the state. Furthermore, federal loans and grants are unlikely to be affected by the recession.

Read more Frequently Asked Questions >>>

Contact the Student Financial Services Office

Please contact us on the web or via e-mail at sfs@randolphcollege.edu if you can't find what you are looking for or call us directly at (434) 947-8128 or fax (434) 947-8996.

Our office is open 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Mailing Address:
Student Financial Services
Randolph College
2500 Rivermont Ave.
Lynchburg, VA 24503
USA