Howard University Announces Tuition Freeze and Rebates to Students

With the intention to make college more affordable and to meet President Obama’s goal of having America as the leading country with the highest portion of college graduates by 2020, Howard University has mapped out a plan that will freeze tuition for all undergraduate and select graduate degree programs, as well as offer tuition rebates to students who earn their degree early or on time.

The innovative plan, which will go into effect for the 2015-2016 academic year, gained unanimous support from the Board of Trustees and puts Howard in the forefront of universities committed to college affordability and completion. The tuition freeze will apply to all undergraduate students, except those in the College of Pharmacy’s traditional PharmD program, who will see a 4 percent increase in tuition. The plan has also been approved for graduate school students who are earning an advanced degree in business administration, divinity, education, pharmacy and social work. In regards to the rebate, 50 percent of the final semester’s tuition will be reimbursed to any student who graduates early or on time.

“Howard University is committed to addressing the academic needs of our nation, in particular the needs of the African American community and underserved populations,” said Howard President Wayne A.I. Frederick. “A large part of this commitment includes ensuring that the cost of attendance is not a barrier for students to turn their highest dreams into reality.”

The university also launched the Graduation & Retention Access to Continued Excellence (GRACE) Grant to help pay the remaining tuition and fees for students who are on the right track for graduation, but are in need of financial assistance. This fall, over $2 million was awarded directly to students through the GRACE Grant program.

SOURCE: Howard.edu