JMU's value recognized by Kiplinger's

James Madison University places 20th on Kiplinger's Personal Finance's top 100 Best Values in Public Colleges for 2013.

The annual ranking recognizes four-year public schools that combine outstanding education with economic value. JMU held the 28th spot in last year's list.

"James Madison placed in the top 100 thanks to its high four-year graduation rate, low average student debt at graduation, abundant financial aid, a low sticker price, and overall great value," according to a news release issued by Kiplinger's.

JMU's high four-year graduation rate of 64 percent was a significant factor in the university's ranking on the best values list. JMU's competitive total cost per year for Virginia students ($18,314) and cost after need-based aid ($11,404) also contributed to the favorable ranking. JMU graduates hold an average debt at graduation of $22,128.

Kiplinger's analyzed data from nearly 600 public four-year schools to determine its 100 Best Values in Public Colleges for 2013. A complete list of the top schools is available at http://www.kiplinger.com/links/college.

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