Winona State University has been named among America's 100 Best College Buys for the 12th consecutive year. The publication is an independent ranking of the value and quality of colleges and universities across the nation, conducted by Institutional Research and Evaluation (IRE) of Rome, Ga.

America's 100 Best College Buys, the 12th annual report, was published recently for the 2007-08 academic year. Winona State University is the only Minnesota school included. The report profiles the schools that are the highest rated academically, but also have the greatest value as a function of academic quality, cost of attendance and financial aid available.

According to Lewis Lindsey, Jr., president of IRE, the company researches 1,473 accredited U.S. colleges and universities nationwide that offer four-year undergraduate degree programs and which provide facilities for both room and board. Of the institutions surveyed, more than 1,204 schools responded.

To be considered for America's 100 Best College Buys, a college must meet specific requirements. The college must be an accredited four-year institution; offer full residential facilities including residence halls and dining services; have an entering freshman class with a high school grade point average and SAT or ACT score above the national average; and the cost of attendance must be below the national average.

In a preface to the report, the publisher notes, "No college or university has paid to be included in this book. Institutions are included solely on the basis of merit."

Carl Stange, WSU's director of Admissions said he was pleased WSU has continued to be recognized among the nation's best institutions.

"I am very proud to see that Winona State University continues to be recognized by America's College Best Buys" Stange said. "This is our 12th year, and it is great to know that we are competing nationally with a competitive experience and affordable tuition and fees."

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