At Many Schools, Tuition Has Been Flat or Falling

Despite the public perception that college costs are soaring, new national data shows tuition at many of the nation’s colleges and universities has been flat or declining. Sticker prices topping six figures at a handful of universities belie a far more nuanced picture of trends in college pricing and student aid. An annual report released last week by the College Board reveals that net tuition prices — what students pay after federal, state and institutional grant aid is applied — have fallen within the past 15 years. Even when you add in books, housing and other personal expenses, the net cost of attendance is pretty flat.