University System Tackles Significant Funding Cuts and In-State Tuition Increases for the Upcoming Academic Year

In the winter of 2023, Aidan Bearor, a student at the University of New Hampshire, found himself questioning the value of his second-floor dorm room. With frozen windows, he was frustrated by the nearly $13,000 yearly cost. His description of campus housing was stark: “old, dilapidated, no air conditioning, and inconsistent heat.” It made him wonder if he was getting his money’s worth.

For students like Bearor, rising expenses are a major concern. Tuition, housing, and other costs have increased steadily, often outpacing the quality of accommodations. This trend isn’t unique to UNH; students at Keene State College and Plymouth State University face similar challenges.

A study from the New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute reveals a troubling statistic: the state ranks last in public funding for higher education. This lack of investment means students are left to shoulder more of the financial burden. Nicole Heller, a policy analyst at the Institute, pointed out, “Underfunding our public colleges makes it harder for New Hampshire residents to afford their degrees.” She emphasized that this trend could weaken the state’s ability to meet workforce demands in the future.

From 2024 to 2025, state aid for public higher education fell by 3.9%. In contrast, most states saw an average increase of 4.3%. The report notes that without state support, universities must rely more heavily on tuition and fees, which leads to further cost increases. For instance, trustees at the University System of New Hampshire proposed tuition hikes after a six-year freeze, resulting in a total increase of 15.6% for resident undergraduate tuition across all institutions.

As for specific numbers, tuition will rise to approximately $15,908 per year at UNH Durham and $15,154 at Keene State. Plymouth State’s rates will hit $15,068, showing a concerning trend of escalating costs that make in-state education among the most expensive in the country.

Many high school graduates in New Hampshire, faced with these rising costs, choose to pursue education in neighboring states like Vermont, Maine, or Massachusetts. This trend could have long-lasting effects. Research shows that students who leave New Hampshire for college are less likely to return after graduation. This exodus may hinder the state’s efforts to build a diverse labor force.

To combat these rising trends, the University System is working on strategies to support local students. However, the recent state budget cuts have further strained resources. In June, the budget eliminated around $18 million in support for the University System, reducing funding to approximately $87 million, a significant drop from the previous year. Experts warn that this funding decline will not only impact tuition rates but also limit student aid programs, raising concerns about affordability.

With many students burdened by high debt – Bearor, for instance, graduated with $136,000 in loans – the future seems daunting. “If I had this much debt with just an English degree, it would be a lot harder to swallow,” he reflected.

As we look at the broader picture, it’s clear that New Hampshire must prioritize education funding. Accessible and affordable education is vital for creating a workforce ready to tackle the state’s challenges. “Investing in our students can help grow our workforce and improve the Granite State’s economic future,” Heller concluded. It’s a message worth considering, not just for students but for the state as a whole.

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