The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) has named Ashford University to its annual list of institutions that provide the most affordable tuition. Released earlier this month, Ashford appeared on the list of private for-profit, four-year institutions, where it was assessed against all other similar institutions in the nation. Only the most affordable 10 percent of institutions are included on the final list. According to the statistics released by the NCES, Ashford University’s online tuition was 33 percent below the national average among private for-profit, four-year institutions for the 2013-2014 year.

“Ashford University has always provided students with an excellent, high-quality education, but we are also cognizant of the escalating costs of post-secondary education and we want to be sure students aren’t priced out of their educational goals,” said Dr. Richard Pattenaude, president of Ashford University. “Being on a list like this lets us know that we are succeeding at our mission to keep quality education affordable and accessible.”

The NCES is the primary federal entity for collecting and analyzing data related to education. Its lists are created using data collected through the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). The 2013-2014 IPEDS data collection cycle represents the most recent data cycle that has undergone the full NCES data review process. The complete lists and additional information are available on the College Affordability and Transparency Center website at http://collegecost.ed.gov/catc/Default.aspx#.

These lists meet requirements outlined in the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008 (HEOA). Per the HEOA, the lists are updated annually and posted by July 1.

About Ashford University

Where heritage meets innovation – that’s Ashford University. At Ashford, students discover relevant degree programs, innovative technology, and cherished tradition. Ashford offers associates, bachelor’s, and master’s online degree programs, and students enjoy a supportive community. For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu, www.facebook.com/ashforduniversity, www.twitter.com/AshfordU, or call Shari Winet, Vice President of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.