The Hechinger Report
Students at a New York university are facing an $8,000 “academic excellence fee” on top of tuition, which is just one of many unexpected fees that add 27% to student charges. These fees are often added to make up for budget cuts and are difficult for students to cover, leading to more loans or dropping out. Public universities are particularly affected, with graduate students bearing a significant burden. The practice of adding fees instead of increasing tuition is defended as necessary for revenue, but students feel nickel-and-dimed and frustrated. Some colleges are eliminating fees, but this remains rare. It’s advised for students and families to research and ask questions about fees to understand what they’re paying for and potentially reduce costs….