What’s Being Considered
EKU is considering changing the point at which additional per-credit-hour tuition charges begin. Under the proposal, these fees would begin after 15 credit hours rather than the current threshold of 18. This consideration follows a review of tuition models across peer institutions. Even with the proposed change, EKU would remain among Kentucky’s most affordable public universities. The EKU Board of Regents has not made a final decision on this proposal.
Why Now?
Several trends have led to this consideration:
Notably, only 13% of our students are enrolled in more than 15 credit hours, and the average credit hours taken by EKU full-time students is 16. For those students who are taking greater than 15 credit hours it is expected the financial aid packages of most students will cover Full-Time Plus.
Student Impact and Timeline
If approved, this change would not take effect until Fall 2025. This allows time for students to adjust plans, and we are committed to communicating early and clearly.
For students who have received refunds in the past, those funds are part of a shared tuition model, and future refunds may now be adjusted. However, financial aid packages will remain unaffected, and for most students, the additional proposed fee will be covered.
Students will continue to pay the same full-time rate for 12-15 credit hours per semester and are encouraged to enroll in 15 credit hours to promote timely progression. Students are encouraged to meet with academic advisors to carefully plan their schedules, including considering efficient course selection, summer and winter courses and leveraging available financial aid options.
The proposal has been discussed in various university forums, including:
What Happens Next?
We know students care deeply about the value and cost of their education. EKU is committed to maintaining affordability, transparency and open dialogue. We will keep you and your families informed as updates become available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Will this affect my current schedule or Spring 2025 enrollment?
A: No. If approved, the change will take effect in Fall 2025. Spring and Summer 2025 schedules will not be impacted.
Q: What if I have scholarships or financial aid?
A: Most financial aid packages will adjust accordingly, as aid is based on full-time status and cost of attendance. Continuing students will receive their financial aid offer notifications once final grades are posted for the current Spring 2025 term.
Q: Can I still take more than 15 hours?
A: Yes. You can still take more than 15 credit hours—just know that once Full-Time Plus is approved, each additional hour will incur a per-credit hour fee.
Q: What if I need to take more than 15 hours a semester to stay on track to graduate?
A: We understand this concern. Academic advisors will provide individualized or group advising to help plan your schedule and explore options. To help manage your course load and minimize additional costs, we also encourage you to consider taking courses during the summer or winter terms.
Q: How will I know if I’m impacted?
A: You’ll receive info through myEKU closer to the start of the Fall term. Charges over 15 credit hours will be explicitly noted on the billing statement.
Q: How much is the proposed per-credit-hour fee?
A: The proposed fee would be $348 for each credit hour exceeding 15 for a semester, this is a 20% discount from the standard per-credit hour fee. The majority of EKU students will have room in their financial aid packages to cover Full-Time Plus.