Virginia Private College Week 2007 July 30-Aug. 4
July 19, 2007
College-bound Virginia high school students can have three application fees waived and learn about the quality and affordability of private colleges and universities in their home state during Virginia Private College Week, July 30-Aug. 4.
Sponsored by the 24 member colleges of the Council of Independent Colleges in Virginia, the event encourages in-state high school students and their parents to visit campuses—one of the most important steps in the college search process.
Students can visit as many campuses as interest them, but those who visit at least three during the week will receive application fee waivers to apply free to three CICV colleges of their choice.
"During Private College Week, families will learn about the quality and affordability of our institutions," explains Robert Lambeth, president of CICV. "Our students are engaged in the classroom, involved on campus, and prepared for a career or graduate school. What makes private colleges different from many state universities are our small classes and the personal attention our students receive."
A private college education is also more affordable than many families think. Last year, Virginia private colleges gave students more than $200 million in scholarships and grants. In-state students attending a Virginia private college are also eligible for the Tuition Assistance Grant (TAG). A program of the Commonwealth of Virginia, the grant will be around $3,200 next year. It is not based on need or merit and is an annual grant available for four years at the undergraduate level.
During Private College Week, most CICV colleges will offer campus tours and information sessions about admissions, financial aid and academic programs. At University of Richmond, information sessions followed by campus tours are offered Mondays-Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. and Fridays at 9:30 a.m. Advance registration is requested, online at admissions.richmond.edu/visit/ or by calling (800) 700-1662 toll-free.
Last year, CICV colleges reported almost 2,000 visits during Private College Week, with students and families visiting from 33 states and the District of Columbia.
Private College Week is not an organized bus tour. Students visit the colleges on their own and must arrange their own transportation. Students are also encouraged to call the colleges beforehand and make an appointment. More information about Virginia Private College Week and the application fee waivers can be found at www.privatecollegeweek.org or by contacting any of the participating colleges.
With 25 member institutions, CICV was founded in 1971 to promote the interests of nonprofit, private colleges and universities in Virginia. CICV was also instrumental in starting the state's Tuition Assistance Grant (TAG) program.