The proposed plan, which was met with protests from California State University students who claim they cannot afford the hike, has gained support from around half of the Board of Trustees members.
California State University students face the possibility of a 6% annual tuition increase, a move that could generate much-needed funds for the financially struggling system
The plan, currently under discussion, calls for yearly increases for undergraduate and graduate California State University students starting in the 2024-2025 academic year. If implemented, full-time undergraduate California State University students would see their tuition rise from $5,742 to $6,084 in the first year alone. Each subsequent year would bring an additional 6% increase, with the board reassessing the raises every five years. By the 2028-2029 academic year, full-time undergraduates would be paying $7,682 annually.
Around 60% of the university system’s 460,000 California State University students, whose tuition is covered by grants, scholarships, and waivers, will not be affected by the increase, according to officials. The system is significantly underfunded, with its main revenue sources, state funding, and tuition, covering only 85% of necessary expenses in the 2021-2022 year. The shortfall could result in reduced course offerings, student support, and longer graduation times if additional funds are not secured.
Supporters of the tuition increase argue that it is crucial for the financial stability of the system, which has seen only one increase in the past 11 years
However, some trustees voiced concerns about the indefinite nature of the proposal and the burden it would place on California State University students. California State University students and faculty associations also objected to the plan, emphasizing the financial strain on California State University students and suggesting alternative ways to raise money, such as reducing administrative costs.
Outside a board meeting in Long Beach, California State University students, and unions protested the proposed hikes, highlighting the already high costs of attending California State University and the challenges many students face in covering living expenses. Some California State University students urged the trustees to redirect funds from campus police budgets to student needs, including mental health services.
The Board of Trustees is expected to vote on the tuition proposal in September, after further input from California State University students and the announcement of a new chancellor.
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