"The RSP could save participating Maine students an average of $5,200 in annual tuition costs when they enroll in certain out-of-state degree programs not offered by Maine's public institutions, including, pharmacy and environmental design," said Rep. Libby Jones.

For example, Libby Jones said that because a bachelor's degree program in pharmacy is not offered by a Maine state college or university, Maine residents are eligible to pursue that major through the RSP at the University of Connecticut and pay significantly lower tuition than other out-of-state students. This year, undergraduate RSP students at UConn pay $6,672 in annual tuition while other out-of-state students pay $13,566.

"Eligibility for this program is good news for Maine students and their families who are struggling with the sobering experience of financing a college education," she added.

Libby Jones noted that the New England Board of Higher Education estimates that in academic year 2000-2001, more than 7,600 New England students enrolled at out-of-state public colleges through the RSP saved an average of $5,200 each on their annual tuition bills. Total tuition savings last year were estimated at $40 million last year.

"The RSP not only saves students and their families thousands of dollars in tuition, but also saves New England taxpayers millions of dollars by enabling New England state higher education systems to share resources and avoid duplicating costly academic programs."

For more information, Rep. Libby Jones recommends that students consult The Apple Book, which lists all the reduced tuition programs. The book is in most high school guidance offices, public libraries and college admissions offices. Students may also obtain a copy by writing to the New England Board of Higher Education, 45 Temple Place, Boston, MA 02111.

Representative Sharon Libby Jones serves on the Joint Standing Committee on Appropriations and Financial Affairs. She represents House District 111 - Abbot, Beaver Cove, Bowerbank, Brownville, Greenville, Guilford, Monson, Sebec, Shirley, Wellington, Willimantic, and Kingsbury Plantation, plus unorganized territories including Barnard, Lily Bay, Harfords Point, Williamsburg, Blanchard and Elliottsville Townships.