Tuition to rise at Georgia public colleges for 2026–27

In-state students to see 1% increase as officials cite rising costs and affordability efforts

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT)- The University System of Georgia has approved a tuition increase for the upcoming academic year.

The system’s Board of Regents voted Tuesday to raise tuition by 1% for in-state undergraduate students and 3% for out-of-state and international students for the 2026–27 school year.

The board also approved changes to mandatory fees at 13 of the system’s 25 colleges and universities.

Officials said fee adjustments at Kennesaw State University and Georgia Southern University will reduce costs for in-person students.

Officials cite affordability efforts

System leaders said the increase is limited and remains below inflation.

“This decision reinforces our commitment to affordability,” Chancellor Sonny Perdue said in a statement.

According to the system, this marks only the fourth tuition increase in the past 10 years.

Officials said Georgia continues to rank among the most affordable states for public higher education, with tuition and fees among the lowest in the South and nationwide.

The decision comes as the university system faces rising operational costs and continued enrollment growth.

Lawmakers recently approved a state budget that includes new investments in higher education but also reduces some enrollment-based funding. The budget is awaiting the governor’s signature.

Officials said the state now covers a smaller share of instructional costs than originally intended, shifting more of the burden to tuition.

Despite those challenges, system leaders said they remain focused on keeping college accessible and affordable.

The board also supports efforts to review and update Georgia’s higher education funding formula.