Many students at the University of the District of Columbia say they cannot afford any tuition increases, no matter the amount. Tuition at UDC was expected to go up nearly 100 percent. But that was before school officials knew they would recieve an estimated $10 million in federal stimulus money. That means tuition will go up about twenty five percent this fall, with another hike in 2010.
But Debbie Graham, a sophmore, says just about any increase will mean she'll have to find a cheaper school. She says, "We're barely getting enough financial aid to cover this amount. They shouldn't raise it at all."
Koehen, who didn't want to give his last name, says many fellow students will continue working, "...try to save up enough money to come back. But they might not be here next semester."
School officials say the tuition hike is necessary to attract professors, improve student services and update facilities. The University's Board of Trustees meets tomorrow to make a final decision on the tuition hike.
Stephanie Kaye reports...
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