For Immediate Release:
April 28, 2026
Contact: Marissa Morrison
208-332-1591
[email protected]
BOISE, Idaho — The Idaho State Board of Education today approved tuition adjustments for the state’s public colleges and universities during a special Board meeting held April 28.
Idaho continues to rank among the top 10 states for college affordability, with tuition increases that have remained below national averages and competitive with surrounding states.
The Board approved an increase of $425 for resident undergraduate students at Boise State, University of Idaho, and Idaho State University and $350 for students attending Lewis-Clark State College. The decision reflects a deliberate effort to balance student affordability with the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of Idaho’s higher education system.
The Board adopted a set dollar increase, rather than a percentage-based adjustment, to provide greater predictability for students and families. A dollar-based approach ensures a more consistent impact across institutions, avoids disproportionate increases at lower-tuition campuses, and keeps the focus on the actual cost to students.
“These are not simple decisions, and they are not made lightly,” said Board President Kurt Liebich. “We are balancing the very real financial pressures facing our institutions with our responsibility to keep higher education accessible for Idaho students. Our goal is to ensure students have access to high-quality opportunities while maintaining the strength and stability of our institutions.”
Board members noted that the tuition adjustments are intended to serve as a measured step forward and must be paired with continued institutional discipline. Institutions are expected to contain costs, prioritize programs aligned to community and workforce need, and pursue administrative efficiencies.
Idaho’s public institutions have maintained enrollment stability and growth, bucking national trends. The Board underscored the importance of sustaining that momentum while ensuring institutions remain competitive, capable of delivering high-quality programs, and able to retain Idaho students.
“Idahoans are choosing our institutions because they deliver affordable, high-quality results,” said Idaho State Board of Education Executive Director Jennifer White. “The Board’s job is to keep it that way and make sure students and taxpayers understand the investment and see the return.”
The Board also reaffirmed its commitment to prioritizing Idaho students, strengthening workforce pathways, and supporting the state’s long-term economic future. Members also acknowledged the need for continued conversations around sustainable funding models that appropriately balance state investment, institutional efficiency, and student contributions.
The tuition increase will take effect for the Fall 2026 semester.
About Idaho State Board of Education
The mission of the Board is “To drive improvement of the K-20 education system for the citizens of Idaho, focusing on quality, results, and accountability.”
