FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. -- In response to the devastation wrought by Hurricane Katrina and the apparent lengthy period of rebuilding that will be necessary, the University of Arkansas will extend free or reduced tuition and fees to students currently enrolled in universities and colleges in the New Orleans area for the fall semester, Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Advancement Bob Smith announced Wednesday.

Institutions affected by the storm include Dillard University, Loyola University-New Orleans, Our Lady of Holy Cross College, Southern University-New Orleans, Tulane University, University of New Orleans, and Xavier University of Louisiana. Reports of similar problems in Mississippi have also been received.

“Reports are preliminary, but our colleagues to the south are telling us that they simply are not sure when - and in some cases, if - they will be able to serve students again,” he said. “We want to offer help where we can.”

Arkansas residents currently enrolled in New Orleans institutions who enroll this fall at the U of A will have tuition and fees waived, Smith said. Out-of-state residents who switch enrollment from an affected institution to the University of Arkansas will be extended an in-state tuition rate.

Eleven students from the New Orleans area have already been admitted on this basis, said Admissions Director Dawn Medley.

Students seeking fall enrollment who are coming from affected institutions in other areas, such as Mississippi, will be extended assistance on a case-by-case basis to be determined by the admissions office.

Students interested in more information should contact the admissions office at (479) 575-3771 for additional details and a determination of eligibility.