UNCW weighs tuition hike as students describe financial struggles

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — College students are already feeling the financial pressure of higher education costs, and some University of North Carolina Wilmington students could face another expense as university leaders consider a potential tuition increase.

UNCW’s Board of Trustees discussed the possibility of increasing in-state undergraduate tuition by up to 3% for the 2027-28 academic year during a meeting Thursday. No final decision has been made.

For Caitlyn Withey, a transfer student hoping to graduate in fall 2027 or spring 2028, the cost of college is already a concern.

“I owe just over $4,000 for tuition and I’m at risk of not being able to, being able to re-register for classes next semester if I can’t pay this four-grand in the next like 2, 3 weeks,” said Withey.

Withey said transitioning to a new career has made it more difficult to keep up with her tuition payments.

“I’ve been trying to transition out of the industry that I’ve been in for a long time, into something that is more aligned with my goals and my major; there’s been some roadblocks there, and that has led me to not be able to pay my tuition payments this semester,” said Withey.

According to UNC System data, UNCW ranked eighth-lowest among the system’s 16 universities for in-state undergraduate tuition and fees during the 2026-27 academic year.

Miles Lackey, UNCW’s vice chancellor for business affairs, said enrollment growth is one factor university leaders are considering as they evaluate tuition rates.

“We will be analyzing whether the increase is warranted, and if so, at what particular rate,” said Lackey.

For Withey, even a modest increase could add to the financial strain of paying for school while covering everyday costs.

“Even if I get a job that’s $20, $25 an hour, paying about at least $1,000 in rent with a roommate off campus, having to commute about 30 minutes is frustrating and stressful,” said Withey.

UNCW’s Board of Trustees is scheduled to meet again Friday, Dec. 11, for a special-called meeting to consider campus recommendations for tuition and fees for the 2027-28 academic year.

The UNC System Board of Governors is expected to consider tuition proposals in February 2027.