Marshall University Approves Tuition Hike, Budget for 2027

Board of Governors votes for 2.5% increase, citing rising costs and commitment to affordability

Apr. 8, 2026 at 11:07pm

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A hazy, impressionistic scene of students strolling across a college campus, with soft, warm light and color creating a contemplative, atmospheric mood.Marshall University's tuition increase aims to address rising costs while maintaining affordability through innovative financial aid programs.Huntington Today

The Marshall University Board of Governors has approved a 2.5% tuition increase for the 2027 fiscal year, adding nearly $115 to the current per-semester cost. The move is part of the university's budget plan, which also reflects a projected $2.9 million deficit. Despite the increase, Marshall says it remains committed to keeping tuition below the inflation rate and offering programs to help make college more affordable, including tuition waivers for low-income students and a debt-free promise.

Why it matters

As the cost of higher education continues to rise nationwide, Marshall's tuition hike reflects the financial pressures facing many universities. However, the school's efforts to maintain affordability through targeted assistance programs aim to ensure access to quality education, especially for underserved communities.

The details

The Board of Governors approved the 2.5% tuition increase for in-state residents, while holding out-of-state and metro tuition flat. President Brad Smith stated the increase is below the current inflation rate of 3.1% and consistent with the university's approach in recent years. The budget plan also includes the purchase of the former ACF Industries lot near campus to serve as the future site of the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center, pending grant funding.

  • The Board of Governors meeting where the tuition increase and budget were approved took place on Wednesday, April 8, 2026.
  • The 2.5% tuition increase will go into effect for the 2027 fiscal year.

The players

Brad Smith

President of Marshall University, who discussed the rationale behind the tuition increase and the university's efforts to maintain affordability.

Marshall University Board of Governors

The governing body that voted to approve the tuition increase and 2027 fiscal year budget.

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What they’re saying

“We approved a tuition increase for 2.5% for in-state residents. We held out-of-state and metro flat. Our commitment has continued to be to raise tuition below inflation.”

— Brad Smith, President, Marshall University

“The great thing about it for us is we have two other programs that are a part of our Marshall For All promise versus tuition-free WV, which means if you come from a family with less than $65,000, then we'll actually waive your tuition and your college fees, so you come to Marshall free. And the others went out 400 students in the debt-free promise, which is, if you come to Marshall, we'll also cover room, books, and board, as well. And so, we are continuing to find ways to make sure that a financial barrier is not the reason why they don't come to Marshall.”

— Brad Smith, President, Marshall University

What’s next

The tuition increase and budget plan will go into effect for the 2027 fiscal year. Marshall University will also continue to seek grant funding to support the purchase of the former ACF Industries lot for the Advanced Manufacturing Center.

The takeaway

Despite rising costs, Marshall University remains committed to keeping tuition increases below the inflation rate and providing financial assistance programs to ensure access to higher education, especially for low-income students. The university's balanced approach to managing its budget while prioritizing affordability reflects its mission to serve the community.