Are you caught in the endless cycle of tuition discounting? You’re not alone. It’s a widespread strategy—lower the cost of attendance to attract more students. But as we highlighted in our recent webinar on Net Tuition Revenue (NTR) growth, this short-term fix often leads to long-term instability, diminished perceived value, and in some cases, institutional closure.
The real solution? Understanding, building, and then clearly communicating your institution’s unique value proposition.
🔍 Focus on True Differentiation
It’s time to look past the overused phrases like “small class sizes” and “supportive faculty.” Those are table stakes.
Ask yourself:
- What truly sets your institution apart?
- Is it academic rigor, niche programs, a thriving alumni network, career outcomes, or your location?
- Do you offer an unmatched student experience or breakthrough research opportunities?
As Patricia Maben, Co-founder and President of 3 Enrollment Marketing (3E), noted in the webinar when discussing strategies to support NTR growth:
“We have to stop adjusting aid packages at the end of the funnel and start answering deeper strategic questions: What is our value? How do we communicate it? And how do we build a plan to grow NTR from that foundation?”
💡 Think Like a Brand
Consider Starbucks or Nordstrom. People don’t pay a premium just for coffee or clothes—they pay for what those brands represent. The same mindset can apply to higher education.
When your institution clearly articulates its value and outcomes, you don’t have to race to the bottom on price. Instead, you’ll attract students who see that value—and are willing to invest in it.
🎯 Your Next Move
Let’s shift the narrative—from “How much aid can we offer?” to “How powerfully can we communicate our worth?”
✅ Identify your hidden gems.
✅ Make your value tangible and clear.
✅ Craft messaging that resonates with your ideal students and families.
Ready to take the first step?
3E helps institutions like yours uncover, define and promote their true value through tools like:
- 3E Conversion Apply – Reach value-seeking, price-flexible families.
- 3E Advantage Spotlights – Showcase unique strengths to high-intent audiences.
- 3E Conversion Apply Academics – Drive applications aligned with academic excellence.
- 3E Modern Positioning and Planning – Build a compelling brand from the ground up.
📅 Schedule a consultation with 3E today. Let’s redefine how your institution grows Net Tuition Revenue — sustainably.
To dive deeper on the topic of NTR, watch our previously recorded webinar “3 Steps to Improving Net Tuition Revenue.” Passcode: 3ENetTuition!
