Students, parents can sound off on proposed tuition increases

PHOENIX — The Arizona Board of Regents is giving the public a chance to voice its opinion over proposed tuition hikes from the state’s three major universities.

The increases would go into effect for Arizona State, University of Arizona and Northern Arizona University students for the 2014-15 school year.

ASU has proposed to freeze tuition for in-state undergrads, but add a $75 per student, per semester fee to fund athletics, as well as a 3 percent hike for out of state students.

U of A has proposed a 2 percent increase for current in-state undergrads, as well as a four-year “guaranteed tuition” plan for incoming students that would be 6 percent above what current in-state undergraduates pay. Out of state students would see a 5 percent increase.

Incoming freshman at NAU would pay 2.6 percent more than current students.

As expected, many students aren’t happy about the proposed increases, and Board of Regents President Eileen Klein doesn’t blame them. But she adds it’s ultimately up to some state lawmakers to help determine how the Board votes on whether or not to increase tuition.

“We have made a very strong case with the legislature that increased state funding is the most important factor in keeping tuition down,” she said.

Klein says the Board will also consider how each school is spending the money they’re currently getting.

“What are the universities trying to achieve with these funds?” Klein added.

She said the Board of Regents is expected to vote on the tuition proposals April 3.

From 5 p.m to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Valley residents can attend hearings at one of four locations:

• ASU Tempe, Memorial Union, Memorial Lounge

• ASU Polytechnic, Mesa, Picacho 150

• ASU West, Phoenix, Verde Dining Pavilion Multi Room II

• ASU Downtown, Phoenix, Student Center at the Post Office, San Carlos Conference Room 135

Comments can also be sent via email to the Arizona Board of Regents at tuition@azregents.edu or by fax at (602) 229-2555.