B-CU Earns an A+ Bond Rating

Fitch Ratings Report has affirmed Bethune-Cookman University’s bond rating of A+. Bond credit ratings are the equivalent of an individual’s credit score and are designed to gauge the risk a bondholder will receive on their investment. The strong credit rating means B-CU can borrow at a reduced rate.

Several key factors were considered in the top rating. B-CU operations have historically generated positive margins, averaging 5.6 percent over the past five years. In addition, enrollment has grown dramatically in the last two enrollment cycles driven largely by improved student retention. Enrollment increased by roughly 7 percent in fall 2013, and fall 2014 preliminary figures show similar gains.

Fitch expects enrollment growth and continued student retention improvement to drive positive operating performance, which depends heavily on net tuition and fees. Also, the student default rate has dropped from 20.6 percent to 16.8 percent.

Another factor considered is that BCU’s financial cushion remains sound for the rating category. Available funds, calculated by Fitch as cash and investments not permanently restricted, covered an adequate 79.4 percent of operating expenses and a strong 201.7 percent of long-term debt.