MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Tuition is increasing at West Virginia University.
The WVU Board of Governors approved a $1.05 billion budget effective July 1 during a meeting Friday.
Beginning in the fall, tuition increases 5 percent. According to a release from the university, the measure will support student services, retention and growth readiness.
An additional $2 million in tuition and fee revenues are anticipated resulting from improved student retention.
“Increasing tuition is never a popular decision, but it is necessary in maintaining the momentum we have gained as the state’s flagship, land-grant institution,” said President Gordon Gee. “We provide an open door to the American Dream, and we must never lose sight of that.
WVU reports a $30 million reduction in state funds over the last three years including a $5.4 million dollar cut this year.
Gee has tasked 12 transformation teams to look for $45 million is potential savings and revenue generation.
Meanwhile, board members learned the number of freshman applications is up more than 30%. Admission went up 25% in 2015.