Board of Governors Greenlights Tuition Increases for Out-of-State University Students: What You Need to Know

TALLAHASSEE — Florida’s Board of Governors has approved a plan that might raise tuition for out-of-state students by 10% this fall and possibly more next year. This would be the first hike in over a decade for these students.

Currently, Florida offers some of the lowest tuition rates for out-of-state students in the U.S., averaging around $21,690 for the 2023-2024 academic year. That’s about 28% lower than the national average of $30,140. Almost 33,000 undergraduates and about 25,000 graduate students from outside Florida study at public universities here.

Alan Levine, a member of the Board, mentioned the need for this increase. He believes it could help universities better manage costs while giving students time to prepare for the changes. The state’s law limits how much tuition can go up each year, ensuring transparency.

Levine emphasized the importance of keeping a balance between in-state and out-of-state students. "We don’t want to prioritize nonresidents at the expense of Floridians," he said. Ensuring that in-state students have spots available is critical.

Financially, a 5% increase could mean nearly $24.2 million more for Florida schools annually. Meanwhile, a 15% boost would generate up to $72.5 million. Tuition rates vary across universities, with the University of South Florida charging the least per credit hour, while the University of Florida is the most expensive.

Some Board members raised concerns about compliance with state laws regarding tuition fees for out-of-state students. Eric Silagy, another Board member, pointed out that certain schools, like New College of Florida, may not meet these requirements. He questioned the fairness of increasing nonresident enrollment at schools that rely on taxpayer funding.

New College President Richard Corcoran defended his institution, arguing that it deserves a different evaluation. He believes the college is on a path to becoming a leading liberal arts institution and should not be compared directly to others in Florida.

Overall, these potential tuition increases reflect ongoing discussions about funding and priorities in Florida’s higher education system, making it a significant topic for both current and prospective students.

For more on tuition trends and financial planning for college, you can check resources from the National Center for Education Statistics.

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