Quad Cities, IL—
As state universities try to make ends meet, it could mean a big increase in tuition for students and their parents. The interim president at the University of Illinois says that college may raise tuition by 20-percent for next year. He blames the state for failing to pay 487-million dollars in funding promised to the University. The original projection for tuition was a nine-percent increase, but the lack of funds has changed the situation dramatically. That has Western Illinois University also looking for solutions.Students often pick public universities for their affordability.
"It's nice to be able to come and not have to worry about taking out a bunch of loans," says Shawn Walsh, Western Illinois University student.
But in the wake of state budget problems, Illinois universities are missing money.
"It's a challenge to say the least. It's an opportunity to make sure were as efficient as possible," says Joseph Rives, Vice President of Western Illinois University - Quad Cities.
Western Illinois says the state owes the University about 30-million dollars.
"These are tough times, but their also times to remember why were in business and what's our core function. Our core function is to get students in the door, graduated and have successful careers," says Rives.
In June, Western expects tuition to increase only slightly over last year's seven-percent increase. The campus doesn't expect as much as a 20-percent hike, like the University of Illinois is considering, because of cost cutting measures.
"The only positions being filled directly serve students, travel has been frozen, all purchases over $500 require Vice President approval," says Rives.
It's a time when private colleges are breathing a sigh of relief.
"We're not dependant upon whatever the political situation is or the tax situation and it puts us in an enviable position," says Kent Barnds, Augustana College VP of Admissions.
While public schools look at double digit hikes, Augustana College, a private school, has its lowest tuition increase ever next year of 2.9-percent. But the college has been affected by state budget problems. It is still waiting on about $1.8 million in map funding grants the state has promised to pay.
"We have not had to make any cuts or changes and are able to have all students enrolled and when the payment comes we'll be grateful," says Barnds.
With public increases outpacing private hikes, students are taking notice; the cost gap between the two...is closing.
"The price differences are starting to get to the point where they are about the same," admits Walsh.
A trend students and parents will follow closely.
