CSU Weighs Tuition Raises to Close $1.5 Billion Gap

Tuition raises are likely coming to the California State University (CSU) system as it stares down a budget deficit of nearly $1.5 billion. 

In a report released last week, the California State University (CSU) Chancellor's Office recommended raising tuition in the coming years to help close the budget shortfall. One option would raise tuition by 3% per year over the next five years. Another option would implement a one-time increase of 5%.

The report was the product of an eight-month review by a CSU work group. The examination revealed that current revenue only covers 86% of CSU costs.

CSU’s Board of Trustees is expected to vote on the recommendations next month.

Those who oppose tuition hikes say they will disproportionately impact low-income students and hurt their ability to attend college. But CSU leaders say something needs to be done in order to provide an adequate level of service for students. 

“We really are at the mercy of California’s very volatile economy,” said CSU Board of Trustees member Julia Lopez (L.A. Times). “If the economy gets a cold, the general fund will get pneumonia and then we’re at the mercy of that. Tuition, on the other hand, is stable — it’s predictable revenue for us.”  

Read the full report here.