Throughout my time at Valley City State University (VCSU), I’ve spoken with many high school students and their families. When I ask why they’re interested in VCSU, I hear some common answers:
- Someone in their family, a friend, or a teacher attended VCSU.
- Our academic programs are known for their quality and personal touch.
- Students feel welcomed and supported from day one.
However, one reason stands out: affordability.
At VCSU, we take affordability seriously. In the 2024-25 academic year, over half of our on-campus students paid no tuition out of pocket thanks to scholarships and aid. Many others received significant help, easing their overall college costs and future debt.
When families search for colleges, they often start with tuition rates. But tuition is just one piece of the puzzle. Other costs—like housing, meals, fees, and books—come into play too.
For instance, a student with a 3.05 GPA may receive a $1,500 scholarship for their first two years at VCSU. Combined with our lower base tuition, that brings their tuition to about $5,500, with total annual costs around $14,000 for students living on campus. Plus, students with this GPA may also qualify for the North Dakota Scholarship, further lowering expenses.
In contrast, families often find that attending a four-year public university in neighboring states can cost about $23,000 to $26,000 per year when all costs are factored in. VCSU offers a much more affordable path while still providing a high-quality academic experience.
We believe education should open doors, not create financial stress. Our commitment to affordability reflects our dedication to putting students first. This approach, combined with a supportive campus culture, makes a significant difference for many families.
Recent Insights on College Affordability
According to the College Board’s 2022 Trends in College Pricing report, average tuition and fees at public four-year universities rose to about $10,740 for in-state students. Despite rising costs, VCSU strives to keep tuition low while providing strong educational support.
Recognition in the Arts
Additionally, I want to celebrate our Department of Language and Literature. The student editorial team of The Forge, VCSU’s literary magazine, recently earned recognition as a 2025 REALM First Class magazine by the National Council of Teachers of English. This is the second consecutive year The Forge has achieved this honor, showcasing our students’ creativity and the mentorship from faculty advisor Dr. J. Gregory Brister.
Scholarship Opportunities
VCSU offers several scholarships based on high school GPA. Here’s a quick look:
- President’s Scholarship: $4,000 per year (total $16,000) for students with a 4.0 GPA and 26+ ACT.
- Leadership Scholarship: $2,500 per year (total $10,000) for GPA between 3.65-3.99.
- Clock Tower Scholarship: $1,500 per year (total $3,000) for GPA between 3.05-3.64.
- Footbridge Scholarship: $750 per year (total $1,500) for GPA between 2.50-3.04.
In conclusion, our commitment to making education affordable, coupled with a supportive community, helps many students thrive. We’re dedicated to providing an excellent educational experience without the heavy financial burden.
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affordability,Allen Burgad,President Burgad,President column,VCSU President
