In 2009-10, the UNCF contracted MNA to complete a data analysis report using NCES’s IPEDS datasets to assess the college affordability rates for students attending various UNCF-supported colleges across the country as compared to similar non-UNCF-supported colleges. Data suggested that in FY 2006-07 and 2007-08, on average, the UNCF-member colleges and universities’ total charges were 28 and 31 percent lower respectively than comparable institutions. In addition, the average increase in total charges for UNCF-member institutions in both years was $870 while that of comparable institutions was double, at a little over $1,706. Within the context of steady price increases at majority institutions, and the economic downturn, the ability of UNCF-member HBCUs to offer significantly lower total charges than comparable institutions is critical to the nation’s ability to deliver on President Obama’s promise to increase the number of Americans with college degrees by 2020. Furthermore, UNCF-member institutions offer cultural continuity and encouragement that are as vital to personal and professional success as rigorous academics.
