College of DuPage board keeps tuition flat for fall 2021 and among lowest in Illinois

Maintaining a strong focus on student success balanced with consideration of COVID-19's impact, the College of DuPage Board of Trustees authorized keeping tuition flat for the 2021-2022 academic year during its regular March 18 meeting.

Among the lowest in Illinois, tuition and fees will remain at $138 per credit hour for in-district residents, $325 for out-of-district students, and $395 for out-of-state students.

"While the College of DuPage community was able to adapt to remote learning amid COVID-19, many of our students continue to face additional financial challenges because of the pandemic," said Board Chairman Christine Fenne. "Thanks to the college administration's sound financial planning, we are able to hold tuition steady while maintaining the quality educational resources expected from our institution."

College of DuPage President Dr. Brian Caputo said the tuition freeze is prudent in the current environment.

"We are mindful that recovery includes overcoming financial hardships resulting from the pandemic," he said. "With student success at the forefront of our institution, this one-year tuition freeze is designed to ease a portion of the burden while encouraging our students on their educational journeys."

The tuition freeze comes as college leaders plan COD's FY22 budget. The document will be completed over the next several weeks and is expected to be made public in May.

The board will hold a public hearing before voting on the final budget in June, with FY22 beginning July 1, 2021.

College of DuPage is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Serving approximately 21,000 students each term, College of DuPage is the largest public community college in the state of Illinois. The college grants seven associate degrees and offers more than 170 career and technical certificates in over 50 areas of study.