In compiling our list of most expensive colleges and universities, we referenced data and surveys published by a variety of sources, including the Chronicle of Higher Education (which uses figures collected by the College Board) and Campus Grotto.

FORBES: Education

For now, the list of 2, 900 colleges and universities awarding credits for self study is dominated by community colleges and other second-tier institutions.

FORBES: Paying for College: The Three-Year Degree

Our list reflects what freshmen entering any of these traditional, four-year colleges and universities can expect to be billed for tuition, fees, room and board.

FORBES: Education