Albany State University has initiated its “Come on Over” campaign for students in three neighboring states who want to take advantage of in-state tuition costs to attend the Southwest Georgia institution.

A new University System of Georgia policy allows ASU to waive out-of-state tuition for qualified students in Florida, Alabama and South Carolina, beginning fall 2015. The university can decide whether to apply the waiver to undergraduate and graduate students, and those pursing online degrees, according to ASU officials.

“This is an excellent opportunity for students in bordering states to take advantage of the outstanding programs we have here at ASU at an affordable cost,” said Interim ASU President Arthur Dunning. “Albany State University has been a beacon in Southwest Georgia for 112 years; we look forward to continuing to extend the university’s reach and influence.”

Currently, in-state tuition and fees for full-time ASU students completing 12 credit hours is $2,596 per semester and $7,598.44 per semester for full-time, out-of-state students, which constitutes savings of $5,002.44.

“This policy change will provide us with more flexibility to open our doors to well-prepared students who may find out-of-state tuition costs to be an obstacle to a quality education at ASU and an array of course offerings that will lead to viable jobs after graduation,” said Abiodun Ojemakinde, provost and vice president for academic affairs at ASU. “It also supports the Complete College Georgia goal of having a more educated citizenry. This is a good thing for all involved.”

Prospective out-of-state students interested in the tuition waivers must provide evidence of established, maintained residency in the qualifying bordering state for at least 12 consecutive months immediately prior to the first day of classes.

In conjunction with the "Come on Over" campaign launch, ASU will host Acceptance Day 2015 on Saturday, April 18, and Saturday, May 2. The day will serve as an opportunity for newly admitted students to celebrate the decision to attend ASU, and will include pre-advisement sessions, a Signing Day ceremony and a luncheon, among other activities.

Albany State University is among several institutions approved by the USG Board of Regents to provide the out-of-state tuition waivers. The board sanctioned changes to the policy during its March meeting.