NORFOLK, Va. — Old Dominion University (ODU) hosted a public forum Thursday as officials look at a possible tuition increase for both in-state and out-of-state students.
Aside from preparing for exams, some students are worried about the proposal.
"I just heard about it the other day," said in-state ODU sophomore Ben Moreau.
"It's going to affect me a little bit, but the good thing about it is that I won't be on campus next year," said in-state ODU freshman Trista White.
On Thursday, ODU hosted a public forum with members of the Board of Visitors. There, they discussed increasing tuition by up to 5% and mandatory fees by up to 7%.
One ODU student believes a rise in tuition would be a lose-lose situation for students.
"Book prices have been up. I mean, all the stuff has been up, so it's frustrating as a student because I have to work and do schooling, and trying to keep them together is difficult," said in-state ODU junior Owen Mohrmann.
However, the university said a possible rate increase will largely depend on the final budget from the 2024 General Assembly legislative session. Meanwhile, the idea of possibly paying more in tuition has some incoming freshman weighing their options.
"I'm kind of worried about it, but I'm like 50/50 about it. I think I'll have enough money for it, but if not, I'll just have to pick another place," says incoming ODU freshman Trinity Williams.
According to the university, the tuition raise would be used to retain and attract faculty, maintain facility operations, enhance technology infrastructure and other projects.
ODU will meet with members of the Board of Visitors on April 19 to discuss further recommendations for the budgeting process. Once the 2024 General Assembly decides on a budget, the university will make a final decision about increasing tuition.
On the Peninsula, Christopher Newport University (CNU) is also considering a tuition raise of up to 4.2%. CNU said in a statement, "Christopher Newport University is committed to accessibility and affordability. We look forward to hearing the public's comments on tuition and fees."
According to the website, CNU's Board of Visitors will meet on April 19, 2024, in the Freeman Center, Room 201, at 9:45 a.m.