JACKSONVILLE, Fla. \u2013 UNF is moving forward with higher costs for some students starting in Fall 2026, including a 5% increase in on-campus housing rental rates and a 15% increase in out-of-state tuition-related fees.<\/p>\n
The University of North Florida Board of Trustees passed the proposed increases during its quarterly meeting on Tuesday.<\/p>\n
UNF said tuition and fee revenue helps pay for instruction, salaries, benefits and operational costs, and noted the university\u2019s last tuition increase was in 2013. <\/p>\n
Housing rates to rise 5%<\/p>\n
UNF Housing and Residence Life proposed the 5% rental rate increase for the 2026\u20132027 academic year, citing inflation-driven operational and maintenance costs. University officials also said the increase is needed to remain compliant with bond covenants tied to housing financing.<\/p>\n
During the discussion, trustees acknowledged the impact on students\u2019 budgets but also that they had little choice in agreeing to the increases because of inflation and other concerns.<\/p>\n
Student Body President Hazel Joseph urged the board to keep affordability in mind, questioning why steadier increases were not made earlier to avoid a sharper jump.<\/p>\n
\u201cI understand where the proposal is coming from and the financial regulations and responsibilities that the university has to consider,\u201d Joseph said. \u201cHowever, I naturally look at this from a student perspective. Cost is something students talk about a lot.\u201d<\/p>\n
The housing increase ultimately passed, with officials noting future housing rate increases in 2027\u20132028 and 2028\u20132029 would not exceed 5% each year under the proposal.<\/p>\n
Out-of-state fees to increase 15%<\/p>\n
UNF also asked the trustees to agree to a 15% increase to the Non-Resident Undergraduate and Non-Resident Graduate out-of-state fee and financial aid fee, also effective Fall 2026.<\/p>\n
University officials said UNF\u2019s out-of-state student population currently sits around 6% to 7%, and the increased fee is expected to generate $1 million to $2 million in additional revenue. <\/p>\n
They also said additional financial aid would be added to the budget to help students with need.<\/p>\n
Under the proposal, which passed, the current out-of-state fee of $457.27 will increase to $525.86.<\/p>\n
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