Tuition hike at Delaware State University

It just got 11 percent more expensive for students attending Delaware State University.

DSU's Board of Trustees approved a 5.5 percent tuition hike, along with a 5.5 percent increase in room and board rates, during a special meeting Tuesday.

DSU President Harry Williams says the loss of federal stimulus money factored into the rate increase for the 2011-2012 academic year.

"The Trustees kept this year’s increase relatively low, as it has over the past several years, in order to balance giving a high quality education to our students with the recognition that our student population comes with great financial need,” said Dr. Williams.

Last year's in-state tuition was $5,901 and out-of-state was $13,480. With the increase, in-state students will pay $6,226 per year and $14,221 for out-of-state.

The increase to room and board affects both the traditional residential hall room rates, which now range from $6,676 to $7,168, and the meal plan rates, which currently range from $3,167 to $3,572. With the 5.5 percent jump, you can expect to tack on close to an extra $400 and extra $200 respectively.

Increases notwithstanding, Dr. Williams says DSU remains competitive with other comparable schools, and continues to stand out as "an educational best buy."