Policies, programs, and planning pertaining to the state-private college relationship in the 1980s are examined. The types of state support and policy implications of the funding options are outlined, and a compendium of the different programs in the states is presented. The popularity of the large public-independent need-based programs (e.g., New York, Illinois, and California) gave way in the late 1960s and early 1970s to need-based programs for independent college students only (e.g., South Carolina and Indiana), and to degree reimbursement programs (e.g., Oregon, Michigan, and New York). Later in the decade of the 1970s non-need-based aid to independent colleges became popular (e.g., North Carolina, Virginia, and Florida). A fourth approach, actually a variation of earlier themes, is the evolving pattern of formulas that tie the funding level for the independent sector (either institutional or student aid) to the per student support in the public sector. Specific types of state support for independent colleges/students are identified under the categories of direct institutional aid, indirect institutional aid, and student aid. In outlining the policy implications of the various funding options, the underlying assumption is that states develop funding programs in light of clear state purposes and a detailed understanding of the role and condition of the independent sector. The compendium of the different programs in the states provides an overview of the range and extent of support available to independent colleges, and students attending them. This listing provides brief program descriptions and funding levels. Planning issues include: the way the independent sector is involved in planning, data collection, program review and approval, and accountability. (SW)