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UW System Seeks $190M to Freeze Tuition Through 2029

Approval of $190 million would make college costs more predictable for students.

Overview

  • Leaders announced the 4‑Year Tuition Pledge on Monday to freeze tuition for the 2027–29 biennium if the state provides $190 million.
  • The pledge would then cap tuition increases at the rate of inflation for the two years after the freeze to give students four years of predictable costs.
  • The plan includes a new Wisconsin Work and Learn program that offers last‑dollar aid to families at or below the state median income in exchange for work, internships or career preparation.
  • The Board of Regents is scheduled to vote on the 2027–29 budget package this week and any funding would still require approval by the Legislature and the next governor.
  • UW leaders tied the request to broader workforce and health goals, asking for about $240 million for workforce programs and $90 million for health training, and warned that without the $190 million they may have to raise tuition in 2027.