George, thanks for your personal experience here. It sounds like you ask questions in order to gauge the student's understanding of tuition and where they are getting the information. That is a great way to start that conversation.
Dr. Jean Norris
I have found that most prospective students today are taking the time to do some research before coming in. In many cases they are aware of their options and school choices for our career field. Our tuition is on our website so the prospective student who has explored our site is usually aware of the tuition for the programs we offer.
I would like to throw this out for general discussion. When the time comes to discuss tuition I sometimes approach it a different way with someone who does not know our tuition. After reaching final agreement with the prospective student the statement I use would basically go like this, " Mary now that we are both in agreement that our school is the right fit for you lets talk about tuition. Mary do you know what the tuition is for our school? Answer No. (Again I do not do this with everyone.) Mary we have taken the time to discuss the programs here in great detail and you got the chance to see our school and our students. Let me ask you a question, what do you think the tuition is for our programs?"
In most cases the prospect student believes the tuition is much higher that it actually is. This makes the process of discussing options for funding school so much easier as they are relieved that the tuition is less that what they thought. Also their estimate -high or low will give me a baseline on where to go from there. You must be prepared for a discussion of "what are you basing that on" if their estimate is very low.
If you have taken the time to build your relationship with them and the value of the program I have found most estimates to exceed the actual tuition.
Does anyone else use this approach and do you find it effective?
Thanks for sharing you approach Davida. It sounds like you allow the student to lead the conversation which can help you see what questions or concerns they have after meeting with Financial Aid.
Dr. Jean Norris
I explain that it is best they see how FA can help. When they come back I ask if they have any questions or concerns and see where they take it. I then talk about the positive of where the course/graduation can take them.
Laura, thank you for sharing your experience. That is great awareness and now it sounds like you have a plan moving forward. Keep us posted with the results.
Dr. Jean Norris
When a prospective student reacts negatively to the cost, I tend to jump to the conclusion that they probably won't move forwards. Previously, I have immediately plowed ahead with options and reasons why they should still considered starting the program.
I especially like the training's approach for "let them sit with it" and giving them the opportunity verbalize that concern and possibly allow them to consider their alternatives BEFORE I start delving into their challenges with them.
Michelle, thanks for sharing this. By asking if the cost is what was expected you can gauge how to respond to them. This is just another way to make sure you understand your students and their needs.
Dr. Jean Norris
To be perfectly honest what I say now is that is a great question. I have just have a few questions to ask you and then we will go over tuition and scheduling. What I will do now is acknowledge the question, answer it and redirect the conversation back to me by asking the student if that is what they expected.
Christie,
Sounds pretty straight forward then. Do you find that just because your school is the cheapest that you get more enrollments then?
Dr. Jean Norris
johnny,
It's great that you have been where your prospective student has been and can really relate. Just curious how you share with them the potential pay? Is this internal information or from an internal source?
Dr. Jean Norris
I tell them what the tuition is, and our tuition is actually pretty cheap compared to most schools or colleges. Then provide them with the information they will need to file a FAFSA form.
I generally go over the cost of tuition on a very basic level. does the total cost of tuition justify the amount of work that is in the industry based on potential pay scale. I understand how difficult it is to put yourself through school. I have done it myself and I can relate to the hardships that must be overcome. But there is light at the end of the tunnel!
Prospective students have some knowledge of the cost of our courses before they call due to the posting on our website, however most post graduate nurses have good incomes so this is not a common problem for us.
I am very honest and upfront about the cost of the program, as I don't want to waste a students time if it is something that truly can not afford. Once I have told them the cost, I assure them that they can file their FAFSA as the school is accredited and once they have done that we have a better idea about other funding options that may be avaiable to them.
Thank you for sharing your observations about discussing tuition, Marie. This is an important topic for many prospective students and their families, so staying current regarding policies is critical.
Dr. Jean Norris
Reach out to all students and encourage them to envision themselves as they achieve their educational and professional goals through attaining higher education. Explaining financial aid policies and options while staying up-to-date on changes in the laws. If the opportunity arises,it is our responsibility to be aware of the federal and state laws that can be applicable to each individual so that they can acquire more options.
Amber,
Interesting approach. It sounds like you draw on personal experience to discuss tuition. What specifically do you tell them that seems to help in discussing tuition challenges?
Shannon Gormley
I share my story with the student and let them know that fiancial aid representatives are available t ohelp them through the process.
Thanks for sharing, Monique. It sounds like you work to be as resourceful as possible for your students and that's wonderful. I'm sure they appreciate the additional options you are able to offer them.
Shannon Gormley
I offer them the lowest possible down payment and monthly payment options available. I inform them of local bank loan opportunities. I also refer them to local agencies that offer scholarships and grant options.
I will discuss in depth the option that best suit the students needs and answer any questions that they may have.
