Western Illinois University says it’s already accepted nearly 6,200 new students for next school year. They will pay a bit more for their education.
The Board of Trustees agreed to increase tuition by 2% for incoming students. The new rate will be locked in for the next four years.
Budget Director Matt Bierman says administrators feel a 2% increase helps the university without making college unaffordable, especially for students from low-income families.
“No matter what happens in Springfield, we have to ask our self, ‘What’s the right decision for us?’”
In addition to the tuition hike, student fees will increase 2%.
Also during their meeting, Trustees agreed to spend up to $2.3 million over 10 years on athletic gear and apparel. That money will come from student fees.