Can anyone explain what the Academic Common Market is and if it could help me save money on out-of-state tuition? I'd love to gather some insights.
The Academic Common Market (ACM) is a tuition-savings program administered by the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) for students residing in participating southern states. It allows you to pay in-state tuition at an out-of-state public institution if your home state doesn't have a public institution offering your desired major or program. Essentially, it's an agreement among 15 participating states that fosters a resource-sharing approach to higher education, allowing students more flexible degree options while reducing their tuition costs.
To be eligible for the ACM, you must meet the following criteria:
1. Be a resident in an ACM-participating state.
2. Be accepted into an eligible program at an out-of-state public institution in another participating state.
3. Complete the ACM application process, which typically includes securing admission to the institution, obtaining certification as a resident from your home state, and ensuring that the institution confirms your eligibility for the tuition reduction.
Participating states include Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. Note that not all programs are available in all states, and each state has its own set of specific rules or eligibility criteria for participating in the ACM.
If you're considering attending an out-of-state public institution for a major that's not available in your home state, the Academic Common Market can be a fantastic way to save money on tuition costs. You could potentially save thousands of dollars, making your education more affordable and accessible. To explore your options, visit the SREB's website and search for your desired program or major to see if any ACM partner institutions offer it. Additionally, reach out to your prospective institution's admissions office to ensure that you meet all requirements and deadlines in the ACM application process.
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