<p>For purposes of admission, being out-of-state is a definite plus. New College used to be a private school before it was absorbed into the state system. Its current admissions strategy is very much focused on returning to the type of geographic diversity that characterized New College’s early days. Though Floridians get in-state tuition as well as generous Bright Futures scholarships, plenty merit aid is still given to attract out-of-state students. </p>
<p>Regarding the question of having to live there: I had a friend whose extended family owned property in FL and was able to get the in-state rate. But Bright Futures requires having graduated from a FL high school. Even if you don’t qualify for Bright Futures, the in-state rate, plus the almost automatic merit scholarships that everyone gets, make NCF a great deal. Check online for the merit aid calculator. It’s very formulaic, and everyone is eligible.</p>