Students could see hefty increase in tuition at state colleges - WFSB 3 Connecticut

Students could see hefty increase in tuition at state colleges

Tuition is going up at all state universities and community colleges in Connecticut, which means living on campus will be more expensive for students. 

Representatives from the Connecticut Board of Regents for Higher Education said the increase could be as high as 12 percent, but that's not set in stone.

"Right now, there is no specific proposal on the table," said Collen Flannigan, of Connecticut Board of Regents for Higher Education. "But, the regions are getting some projections and some numbers analysis, so that they can understand the environment in which they will be considering tuition and fees."

In 2011, the board raised tuition and fees for commuter students at the four state universities including Eastern Connecticut State University, Central Connecticut State University, Southern Connecticut State University and Western Connecticut State University.

In 2012, there was a 3.8 percent increase for $315 in tuition and fees for in-state commuters. There was a 3.7 percent increase for $676 in tuition and fees for in-state students living on campus. There was also a 3.1 percent increase for $108 in tuition and fees for in-state students attending community colleges.

One student told Eyewitness News that he transferred to Central Connecticut State University from Eastern Connecticut State University to save money and be closer to home. However, he said he was not expecting a tuition increase.

"Increasing the tuition is going to diminish that," said junior Todd Mortensen. "So, it's the same education, just a higher price."

However, Mortensen told Eyewitness News that he understands that budgets are tight.

"I feel they could find some other ways than increasing tuition to come up with the money they need," he said.

In retrospect, the University of Connecticut, which is not overseen by the Board of Regents for Higher Education, is also planning an increase of 6 percent starting in the fall

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