Idaho State University announces tuition lock pilot program

Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter and Idaho State University have announced the details of a pilot program that would ensure that base tuition rates for undergraduate Idaho students remain the same for four continuous academic years.

“I am thrilled to partner with Idaho State University to launch a Tuition Lock pilot,” said Gov. Otter. “This program will begin to give families the kind of financial certainty they need as they map out their higher education goals. It is my sincere hope, that as the program develops a track record at Idaho State University it will also give lawmakers the kind of certainty they need to support the concept at all of our colleges and universities.”

The pilot program will begin at ISU in fall 2016, pending approval by the Idaho State Board of Education at its April 13 meeting. Only tuition rates will be locked in and not student fees.

“This new program will help students and their families better plan for their education and it gives students the incentive to complete their degrees in a timely manner,” said ISU President Arthur C. Vailas. “We’re pleased that Gov. Otter took the lead in this effort to help Idaho students pursue higher education knowing that their tuition will be locked as they complete their degrees.”

To qualify, a student must be:

an Idaho resident taking at least 15 credits per semester and maintaining a 2.0 GPA
a degree-seeking, first-time freshman
continuously enrolled fall and spring semesters, unless on active military duty, serving a religious mission or on humanitarian leave

“This program demonstrates ISU’s ongoing commitment to preserving access to higher education for Idaho students and to keeping tuition costs down,” said Laura Woodworth-Ney, ISU provost and vice president for academic affairs.

Students, who may start any semester, must attend a semester to be eligible for the program.

For more information, contact the ISU Admissions Office, 208-282-2475.