SALINA, Kan. — Kansas State University’s Salina campus is proposing an 8 percent increase in undergraduate tuition for the 2025–2026 academic year, the steepest among the six state universities in Kansas. The proposed hike is part of a broader plan to bring Salina’s tuition rates in line with those at the university’s main campus in Manhattan.
In addition to the undergraduate increase, K-State Salina is also seeking a 5.2 percent increase for graduate resident tuition and a 4.5 percent increase for graduate nonresidents. A new tuition rate would also be introduced for students enrolled in an associate degree program. University officials said the combined changes are projected to generate $8.4 million in additional revenue across all Kansas State campuses.
The Manhattan and Olathe campuses are proposing a 3.5 percent increase in tuition across all academic programs and residency classifications. The College of Arts and Sciences is expected to implement a $5 per credit hour fee to fund academic resources. The College of Veterinary Medicine has requested a 2.5 percent increase for its Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program.
Rising tuition proposals are not unique to Kansas State. Fort Hays State University is seeking a 4 percent increase, while Wichita State University is also requesting a 3.5 percent hike. The University of Kansas and Pittsburg State University are proposing 3 percent and 2.5 percent increases, respectively. Emporia State University is the only state university not seeking a tuition hike, though it has proposed an increase in student fees.
University officials across the state cited a combination of inflation, flat state appropriations, declining enrollment, and rising operating costs as driving factors behind the requests. Several institutions also pointed to financial pressures associated with maintaining athletic programs and student services.
The Kansas Board of Regents is expected to consider the proposals in the coming weeks. If approved, the new tuition rates would take effect for the 2025–2026 academic year.
