LSU has been ranked among the nation’s best-value colleges yet again by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine. The annual list compares hundreds of four-year public institutions based on cost, financial-aid packages and academic
criteria like standardized test scores and graduation rates.
 
Academic value weighs heavier on the ranking than affordability, according to the Kiplinger website.
 
The University fared better in the in-state rankings this year than last, when it nabbed the No. 76 spot. But LSU fell 12 spots in the out-of-state comparison,
dropping to 91st from 79th.
 
Schools are given in-state and out-of-state rankings. In-state rankings consider cost of colleges after need-based and non-need-based grants as well as student debt after graduation. The same process is used for out-of-state rankings with adjustments for higher out-of-state tuitions.
 
“LSU is the most successful public university in Louisiana by a long shot,” said Chancellor Michael Martin.
 
Martin said the University will maintain its affordable status despite previous and impending budget cuts.
 
Efforts to increase efficiency and authority granted by the LA GRAD Act 2.0 legislation are some saving methods that could help the University remain affordable, he said.
 
“We’re the best deal the public has,” Martin said. “No one wants to undo that.”
 
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Contact Brian Sibille at
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