Here's a look at what the average undergraduate pays, according to the College Board's Trends in College Pricing 2011 and Trends in Student Aid 2011:

• In 2011-12, public four-year colleges charge, on average, $8,244 in tuition and fees for in-state students. The average surcharge for full-time out-of-state students at these institutions is $12,526.

• Private nonprofit four-year colleges charge, on average, $28,500 per year in tuition and fees.

• Public two-year colleges charge, on average, $2,963 per year in tuition and fees.

These costs don't include where you'll live, how much your meal card will cost or even what you'll spend on pizza.

DCHA members recognize that the dairy industry will benefit by ensuring that ag students have the chance to excel! The association strongly supports the industry's future through its annual scholarship program.

This week's tip highlights the opportunity DCHA offers to one of its members, member's son, daughter or legal dependent - a $1,000 scholarship. DCHA members or children of DCHA members who are attending college in an agricultural major may apply for the scholarship.

The organization awards one $1,000 scholarship annually. Candidates must be currently enrolled in agriculture or a related field such as food science, horticulture, animal/veterinary science, agricultural technical course, etc., or in a course of study with relevance to agriculture at an accredited college or university, and have completed at least one year of post-high school education at the time of application.

The 2012 DCHA scholarship will be presented to the winner at the Annual Meeting, March 21, during Dairy Calf & Heifer Conference in Visalia, Calif.

For an application and additional information, visit the DCHA website. Applications must be postmarked or submitted via e-mail no later than Feb. 13, 2012. If you have questions about the application process, email DCHA or call the DCHA office at 636/449-5077.

12.01.2011