April 10, 2020 — Boston University
Many news sites have inaccurately reported that top private college BU will start its Fall semester in January 2021 due to Covid-19 concerns. BU Today executive editor, Doug Most, has clarified that BU plans to reopen on-campus services in Fall 2020. In the unlikely event that the university cannot reopen on-campus classes and residences by the fall, the task force will consider a January 2021 delayed start date.
What does this mean? Covid-19 news like to pick up on the worst. Check official university websites for the latest updates, but expect the possibility that universities may not be able to restart on-campus classes until 2021.
Read more here.
April 15, 2020 — Syracuse
Syracuse University, U.S. Democratic presidential front-runner Joe Biden’s law school alma mater, is offering their Class of ’20 half off grad school tuition. The university cited a currently unfavorable job market as a reason to continue racking up credentials in the form of a second diploma. The offer is not deferrable.
What does this mean? Syracuse grads aren’t the only ones facing a tough job market. To stay relevant and stay in business, more grad schools will have to use grants as a way to entice current undergrads to enroll.
Read more here.
April 17, 2020 — University of Nebraska for in-state students
Though the University of Nebraska projects to lose $50 million due to Covid-19, the top public school system announced free tuition for undergrads from the state whose families make less than $60k. To keep the scholarship, students must be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours per semester and keep a 2.5 GPA. Room and board aren’t covered.
What does this mean? Even before Covid-19, U.S. universities have been fighting the affordability crisis. In the most difficult economic times, the institutions that show the most generosity may see the greatest rewards. Other schools with dwindling enrollment will struggle to survive if they don’t incentivize prospective students with attractive grants or scholarships offers.
Read more here.