The University of North Carolina system will not raise tuition or fees, however, some students question that decision since classes may take place remotely. | Stock Photo
The University of North Carolina system will not raise tuition or fees, however, some students question that decision since classes may take place remotely. | Stock Photo
As schools determine how to reopen in the fall, the University of North Carolina has decided that its tuition and fees will not change.
The decision comes as COVID-19 has forced higher-learning institutions to make tough choices for the start of the new school year.
The UNC Board of Governors said that COVID-19 will not impact the quality of students' experiences and classes even when being provided via Zoom, the Carolina Journal reported on July 23. While UNC is optimistic, some students don't share the same belief and question why the university will maintain its costs.
Rising senior and criminal justice and political science major Kelly VonEnde of New Jersey questioned the university's philosophy to continue billing for services such as health when students may not be on campus to use the resources.
"Now you’ve already billed me for these services, but I’m not sure I’m gonna get those services," VonEnde told the Carolina Journal. "It’s extraordinarily frustrating because as an out-of-state student, I have to pay extra rent to live in Charlotte."
Fellow rising senior Olivia Tikalsky of North Carolina shared similar thoughts since her selected courses will take place online and is expected to pay the full amount for an in-state student.
In response to the concerns, the Board of Governors told the Carolina Journal that the tuition was debated with the outcome of not raising the cost.
“... Our Board of Governors made it very clear tuition and fees for the instruction that is given with all the support of the campuses would not be prorated, and the tuition and fees would remain in effect for this entire school calendar year,” Chairman Randy Ramsey said, the Carolina Journal reported, during a news conference.
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