Radford University proposes to freeze tuition for in-state, undergraduate students for the upcoming academic year

College affordability continues to be a growing concern for students and families across the Commonwealth and around the nation.  As one of the most affordable public institutions in Virginia, it is critical that a Radford University education remains accessible and affordable for students and their families now and well into the future.

Affordability is also a topic of discussion among state leaders.  Due to a surplus in state revenue, the FY 2020 budget passed by the Virginia General Assembly and pending final signature by Governor Northam provides an additional $53 million for public colleges and universities to freeze tuition for in-state, undergraduate students for the 2019-2020 academic year.  Institutions were allocated a specific amount based on several factors with Radford University to receive $1.7 million.  Institutions electing to increase tuition for in-state, undergraduate students will forego the additional funds, which will be transferred to the Commonwealth’s Revenue Cash Reserve.

“The accessibility and affordability of higher education have been and continue to be top priorities for our University,” said Radford University President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D.  “I am proud to announce that Radford University is proposing to freeze tuition for in-state, undergraduate students and planning to accept the additional investment by the Commonwealth of Virginia. I applaud the efforts of state leaders to make increased investments in our students.  The additional funds from the Commonwealth will mitigate unavoidable cost increases for the next fiscal year, such as instructional support, programmatic opportunities, student services, state-mandated compensation adjustments and the continued operation and maintenance of University facilities."

For the 2018-2019 academic year, Radford University’s total cost to an in-state student, based on tuition, mandatory fees and room and board, was extremely competitive, when compared to other public four-year institutions in Virginia, making Radford the fourth most affordable public institution in the Commonwealth.  Without question, Radford University is committed to providing a high-quality and affordable education for students.  The additional investment from the Commonwealth will reduce the impact of various cost drivers for the University and respond to college affordability concerns from students and their families.

Radford University Board of Visitors Rector Mark S. Lawrence said, “On behalf of the Board, I also want to echo President Hemphill’s words of appreciation to our elected leaders for the investment they are making in our students. We look forward to considering the institution’s recommendation to ensure quality, accessibility and affordability for our students remain our top priorities.  The Board is deeply committed to maximizing opportunities for current and future students.  This proposed action is another demonstration of Radford University’s long-standing commitment to being student-centered in all that we do.”

During the May 10, 2019 quarterly meeting, the Radford University Board of Visitors will formally approve tuition and fee rates for the 2019-2020 academic year.