In the wake of rising education costs, students are having a more difficult time affording higher education all around the country.

However, according to reports from the College Board and U.S. News & World Report magazine, UW-Eau Claire remains more affordable and accessible than the national average for tuition and fees.

Director of Financial Aid Kathy Sahlhoff said this is crucial in that it demonstrates Eau Claire can compete on a quality level and also remain affordable.

“I think one of the most important things we can do for society is to make sure we get people the post-secondary training that they need,” she said, “while also ensuring that that’s available for people no matter what their economic situation is.”

The national average tuition for the 2010-11 school year was $16,140, which is about $3,000 more than Eau Claire’s yearly rate of $13,134 according to The College Board.

Similarly, the U.S. News & World Report found the number of Eau Claire students that received Pell grants is ranked third among the magazine’s top-rated public Midwestern universities. In the 2008-09 academic year, one fifth of Eau Claire students received Pell grants, according to the U.S. Department of Education

Interim Associate Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Michael Wick said that while Wisconsin is rated low in baccalaureate degree-holders, Eau Claire should prove that getting a degree is possible to high-need, low-income students by staying so accessible.

“Wisconsin expects a system of higher education that serves the needs of the general popula-tion while recognizing the economic pressures that serve as deterrents to potential students,” Wick said.

The subject of affordability isn’t devoid of student interest as many students have to pay tuition, room and board and other fees out of their own pockets.

Sophomore Briana Galbraith pays about half of her tuition on her own, and said that Eau Claire’s lower price tag makes it a little easier.

“I think it’s very affordable compared to other colleges, and I think it’s definitely worth it if the financial aspect is a main priority for a student,” Galbraith said.

Junior Dale Walker said one of the biggest reasons he chose to attend Eau Claire is because of its relatively low tuition fees.

“I think the fact that UWEC is ranked as one of the top colleges in Wisconsin, despite being one of the cheapest, speaks for itself.” Walker said, “I don’t think anyone can complain about getting an above-average education for an affordable price.”

Eau Claire did recently enact the Blugold Commitment which will raise tuition $1,200 over four years. The first phase of the program raised tuition $300 this year, according the university’s Blugold Commitment website.

Wick said that while the Commitment will undoubtedly increase the cost of education, it comes with significant financial assistance to help those that would struggle.

“The Blugold Commit-ment will ensure not only that residents have access to higher education, but quality education.” Wick said.

Sahlhoff said she believes that even with the increases, Eau Claire will stay competitive.

“I think that increases are tough whenever we get them and always a hard thing,” she said. “But I expect even with the BC, we’re going to end up staying right in the pack and affordable compared to our peer institutions.”