Georgia Colleges and Universities Raise Tuition for 2026-27 School Year

In-state undergrads to pay 1% more, out-of-state and international students to see 3% hike

Apr. 15, 2026 at 5:56pm

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph of students walking on a blurred college campus, with warm, hazy pools of light and color creating a dreamlike, atmospheric scene.The rising cost of tuition in Georgia's public colleges and universities underscores the ongoing challenge of maintaining affordability and accessibility in higher education.Atlanta Today

The University System of Georgia's Board of Regents has approved tuition increases for the 2026-27 academic year, with in-state undergraduate students facing a 1% rise and out-of-state and international students seeing a 3% hike. The board also approved adjustments to mandatory fees at 13 institutions, including reductions for in-person students at some schools.

Why it matters

The tuition increases, while below the current inflation rate, will add financial pressure on students and families as the cost of higher education continues to rise. However, the board says it is committed to keeping college affordable and delivering value, noting that Georgia has one of the lowest average undergraduate tuition and fees among Southern states.

The details

The 1% tuition increase for in-state undergrads is still below the current 2.7% inflation rate. At Georgia State University, in-state tuition will be $4,590 ($306 per credit hour). At the University of Georgia, in-state students taking more than 6 hours will pay $5,017. In-state students at Albany State University will pay $174 per credit hour and $2,610 for tuition. Perimeter College at Georgia State and Georgia Southern University - East Georgia have the cheapest tuition at $1,575.

  • The tuition increases will take effect in the fall of the 2026-27 school year.
  • The University System of Georgia's Board of Regents approved the measure on Tuesday.

The players

University System of Georgia

The public university system in the state of Georgia, comprising 25 colleges and universities.

Board of Regents

The governing body of the University System of Georgia that voted to approve the tuition increases.

Sonny Perdue

The Chancellor of the University System of Georgia, who stated the system is focused on keeping college affordable.

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What they’re saying

“For more than a decade, USG and the Board of Regents have prioritized keeping college affordable for families so more students can pursue higher education right here in Georgia.”

— Sonny Perdue, Chancellor, University System of Georgia

“These and other cost-containment efforts have helped make USG one of the most affordable public university systems in the South and nationwide.”

— University System of Georgia

What’s next

The Georgia Senate has decided to form a study committee to review and modernize the state's higher education funding formula, and the University System of Georgia looks forward to working with state leaders on solutions that align access, affordability and sustainability for students across the state.

The takeaway

While the tuition increases are below the current inflation rate, the rising cost of higher education in Georgia continues to put financial pressure on students and families. However, the University System of Georgia remains committed to keeping college affordable and delivering value, as evidenced by its position as one of the most affordable public university systems in the South.