The CU system is raising tuition for all students beginning in Fall 2025 to compensate for the state’s higher education deficit. 

Regents approved increased tuition rates at their meeting on April 12. In-state tuition rates will increase by up to 3.5% across the CU system while out-of-state students will observe a 2.3% tuition increase.  

This is the second consecutive year tuition has been raised. In 2024, tuition increased by 4% for all students in the CU system. 

These tuition trends have been observed statewide as Colorado faces a $1.2 billion deficit in higher education funding. The Colorado State University system also approved a 4% tuition increase, effective July 1, to compensate for the deficit.  

At the campus level, UCCS’ budget deficit is $4 million according to reporting by KOAA. 

Tuition increases are generally due to mandatory expenses, such as changes in compensation for staff and faculty, said CU Regent Ken Montera. “Tuition increases are necessary to maintain a balanced budget as expenses continue to outpace revenue, ensuring we can sustain the quality of education and services students rely on.”  

According to Montera, the additional revenue will cover an increased salary for select staff and students, sustain educational opportunities and maintain campus facilities at UCCS. At the CU system level, the increase in funds will cover initiatives such as legal support and advocacy work.  

Students can predict their tuition costs for the 2025-26 school year using the UCCS’ tuition bill estimator. 

Photo courtesy of the UCCS Photography Database.