January 18, 2018
SIU earns top rank for financial aid opportunities
CARBONDALE, Ill. — Southern Illinois University Carbondale has claimed the No. 1 rank on Online Colleges’ “10 Online Colleges with the Best Financial Aid Opportunities in 2017.”
OnlineColleges.com recently released the rankings, placing SIU at the highest spot from among 969 colleges and universities evaluated.
Online Colleges representatives said editors evaluated and scored multiple variables related to student finance to obtain the rankings. The rankings take into account both the online programs offered and the financial aid opportunities available to students.
Grants and scholarships graded higher than loans
Though loans play into the rankings, grants and scholarships, particularly those offered by the institution, are especially valued in the formula used to determine the ranks. The data analyzed also included the net cost, alternative tuition plans offered, the percentage of students receiving financial aid and the average aid offered.
SIU noted for extensive program offerings and commitment to diversity
A profile of SIU is featured along with the rankings list. The profile highlights the university’s diverse and extensive bachelor’s and master’s degree online programs, the high ranks for percentage of the student body receiving financial aid and the average amount of grant and scholarship aid awarded to students. Also noted is the university’s commitment to diversity and making education accessible to everyone through financial aid opportunities.