The Governors State University Board of Trustees has requested student input on plans to increase tuition, mandatory fees, and housing rates for the 2025-26 academic year.

Proposed Tuition Increase

The plan proposes a $30 per credit hour increase for most new students. New international students would see an increase of  $60 per credit hour. Current students’ tuition rates are protected by the Illinois Truth in Tuition Act. This act guarantees that current student’s tuition will not increase for four years. 

According to Paul McGuinness, Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, out-of-state students enrolling in GovState programs pay the same as Illinois residents.

The doubled increase to $60 per credit hour would apply only to international students.

“This is a pretty standard practice,” McGuinness said.

The total tuition increase for each student per semester would be capped at a rate lower than most other state universities in Illinois. The caps vary by degree program.

Proposed Mandatory Fee Increases

Increases to technology and facilities fees also are being proposed. Both payments are charged at a flat rate, based on enrolled credit hours.

The proposed technology fee increase is $50 for students taking six or fewer credit hours and $100 for students taking more than six credit hours. Administrators stress that cybersecurity has recently become a significant cost for the university. They also plan to replace presentation technology in many classrooms.

These fees are expected to fund the administration’s plans to build a soccer field on campus and renovate the A-building. In recent months, plans to replace the pool with a second gym have been a hot issue. Student groups have a meeting with administrators scheduled for later this month to discuss the pool’s fate .

Proposed Housing Rate Increase

Prairie Place housing rates are proposed to increase by 4.5% for all types and sizes of student residences. Students who re-contract for housing during a designated period can lock in the current room rate for the next academic year.

Students are encouraged to voice their opinions by completing a survey by 5 p.m. on Feb. 19. Students who submit their feedback by Feb. 13, 2025, will be entered into a drawing to receive two complimentary Drumline Live tickets.

The Board of Trustees is expected to decide on the tuition, fee, and housing increases at its Feb. 24 meeting.

Students can email the student senate with concerns or questions.