The University of Vermont Board of Trustees today approved President Suresh Garimella’s plan to continue helping students and families by extending UVM’s tuition freeze for a fourth consecutive year.

“Only a small number of universities in the country have frozen tuition for four years,” said Board Chair Ron Lumbra.

Board approval means no increase for the 2022-2023 academic year for all students, regardless of their degree level or residency status. The decision results in the Class of 2023 completing four years of study at UVM paying the same for tuition as they did when they started. Undergraduate in-state tuition is $16,392; out-of-state is $41,280.

Under Garimella’s proposal approved today, the undergraduate student comprehensive fee will also remain frozen, the graduate student comprehensive fee will be reduced by $250, and room and board charges will remain flat for the third consecutive year. Room and board costs had been rising an average of 3.2% before Garimella proposed freezing them two years ago.

 “Affordability and access are….. especially important while many are still finding their way out of the economic stress of the pandemic. Cumulative savings over four years are significant. For undergraduates, $4,500 for Vermont students and $8,900 for out-of-state students,” said Garimella.

Garimella first announced plans to keep tuition frozen for a fourth consecutive year in September.

The board also received updates and acted on a variety of topics, including:

• UVM will partner with with HOPE Works to provide 24/7 support to anyone impacted by sexual misconduct; ongoing training and professional development for staff who support students following reports of sexual misconduct; expansion of the University’s Sexual Misconduct Response Team; creation of a Sexual Violence Prevention Council; recruitment for the new role of Sexual Violence Prevention and Education Coordinator; and enhanced annual sexual misconduct prevention and education training for every student. The Board also heard about the University’s decision to implement all recommendations from an independent, external review of the Title IX-related efforts of the University’s Office of Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity.

• The Board authorized academic program changes previously approved by the Faculty Senate. The university is systematically reviewing programs with low-enrollment and/or low graduation rates to align resources more closely with strategic priorities, market demands, and long-term financial sustainability.

• Trustees approved the creation of a certification program for Sustainability.

• Trustees received an update regarding a potential academic reorganization that will capitalize on the University’s strengths while ensuring a sustainable financial future. The goal is to optimize academic programs, research opportunities, and engagement with Vermont for future generations.