The University of Arizona, along with Arizona State University and Northern Arizona University, has presented proposals for potential tuition and fee adjustments to the Arizona Board of Regents.

Dr. Robert C. Robbins, President of the University of Arizona, has highlighted that nearly all continuing undergraduate students, constituting 99% of the student body, will not face any increases in tuition or mandatory fees for the upcoming academic year due to their enrollment in the tuition guarantee program. This program aims to provide students with financial stability and predictability throughout their academic journey.

A significant aspect of the proposal involves consolidating existing mandatory fees into a new "student engagement fee" for undergraduate students, while also incorporating all fees for graduate students into the overall tuition structure. This restructuring aims to simplify the fee system and ensure that resources are allocated more effectively to support student engagement initiatives and academic programs.

Jeremy Bernick, President of the Graduate Professional Student Council at the University of Arizona, has expressed optimism about the proposed changes, emphasizing their potential to alleviate financial burdens for graduate students. By integrating fees into tuition and streamlining financial processes, these adjustments could result in substantial savings for graduate students, thereby enhancing access to higher education.

However, Dr. Robbins has proposed retaining the Arizona Financial Aid Trust as a separate fee, distinct from both the undergraduate student engagement fee and graduate tuition. This distinction is essential to maintain the integrity of the financial aid system and ensure that funds are directed towards supporting students in need.

The formal proposal submitted by Dr. Robbins in December 2023 outlines a balanced approach to tuition adjustments, taking into consideration the financial constraints faced by both resident and non-resident undergraduate students. While modest increases are proposed for resident undergraduate students, these adjustments are necessary to sustain the quality of education and support services provided by the university.

Additionally, adjustments are being considered for tuition in professional colleges within the University of Arizona. Students enrolled in the College of Medicine, the College of Veterinary Services, and the J.D. Program at the James E. Rogers College of Law may experience slight increases in tuition to align with the evolving needs of specialized programs and the associated costs of delivering high-quality education in these fields.

The proposals presented by the University of Arizona underscore the institution's commitment to ensuring the affordability and accessibility of higher education for all students. The upcoming review and potential action by the Arizona Board of Regents will play a crucial role in determining the final outcome of these proposals and shaping the future of tuition and fees at the university.