Study.com places FIU among the top 10 Most Affordable Online Schools in the U.S.
May 20, 2020, 10:00 AM.
FIU ranks 8th for quality, affordability and student transition during COVID-19.
The COVID-19 pandemic created unprecedented hurdles for many. While universities grappled with educational continuity and remote learning, many students experienced added financial hardship. Despite these new realities, Study.com ranked FIU No. 8 in the nation for Most Affordable Online Colleges in the country.
As a provider of quality online learning for more than 20 years, and known as one of the most affordable universities in the nation, the changeover toward educational continuity in the wake of the coronavirus, was a monumental task for FIU. More than 50,000 students and 2,400 faculty were systematically transitioned to remote learning.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, FIU offered 1,600 courses fully online. In roughly 100 hours, the university converted more than 4,500 face-to-face courses to remote teaching modalities and provided training and support to more than 800 instructors.
“We congratulate you on not only being a leader in quality online education but also ensuring a seamless transition to students who need to switch to an online learning environment during these difficult times,” states FIU’s letter of recognition from Study.com.
Study.com collected data on tuition costs and graduation rates from the United States Department of Education, as well as reviewed information from individual schools, including programs offered and services for online students, in order to create its comprehensive list.
School tuition rates were evaluated, as well as other resources that increase the value and affordability of education, such as financial aid, scholarships, grants, and work studies in addition to special services for military members.
FIU is consistently ranked in Kiplinger's Personal Finance magazine's “100 Best Values in Public Colleges.” Additionally, FIU’s financial aid office awards more than $180 million in financial aid each year.
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for online education at all academic levels has become critical. In addition to maintaining studies during this challenging time, students are relying more heavily on technology for everything from their education to social communication, explains Study.com.
“We applaud Florida International University for already having top-notch online accommodations in place to offer students an easier adjustment,” offers Study.com.