RICHMOND, Ky. — College tuition is rising for students attending Eastern Kentucky University. The school’s Board of Regents approved the increase Wednesday.

Beginning with the fall 2025 semester, undergraduate students will pay $348 per credit hour for any credit hours over 15 in a semester. Right now, the credit hour threshold is 18 credit hours. Students taking 12 or more credit hours are full time and can take 12-15 hours at the standard full-time tuition rate.

On its website, EKU said several “trends” have led to the tuition change. EKU said students often register for more credit courses than they intend to complete and drop them. The school this creates faculty scheduling issues and department staffing.

EKU also said there is a disparity between how in-person and online classes are billed, which is causing inconsistencies the school must address.

The tuition increase according to the school will help support long-term financial stability, reduce the need for budgets cuts and improve academic quality. The school also said the change puts EKU in alignment with other universities on costs.

EKU said most financial aid packages and scholarships students are receiving will adjust accordingly because all aid is based on full-time status. If it does not, the school’s Student Success Center will reach out to students eligible for financial help.

Students are encouraged to speak with academic advisers to go over schedules.

The new tuition plan affects on-campus students only. EKU’s online programs are based on a per credit hour model. Students will know if their tuition is changing closer to the start of the fall term. Charges over 15 credit hours will be shown on a billing statement they will receive through myEKU, the student portal.