AKRON, Ohio — *Editor's Note: The video in the player above originally aired on May 22, 2020.
The University of Akron is making adjustments to ensure that higher education is financially accessible for anyone.
On Tuesday, the University announced that is taking " significant steps to help its students," by foregoing a tuition increase for the 2021-2022 academic school year.
The institution is also working to reduce on-campus housing costs, for all students by 30 percent. According to a press release, the adjustment would lower the cost of attending the University by more than $2,500.
“We realize that many families continue to suffer from the economic ramifications of the pandemic," said University President Gary L. Miller. "We are dedicated to doing all that we can to make higher education as accessible as possible for both current and incoming students. We also want them to enjoy living on campus and truly experiencing all that UA has to offer.”
In addition to reducing the cost of room and board, amid the pandemic, the University has also waived its requirement that first-year student reside on campus. However, with the reduction of cost, it is the University's hope that more students will be able to " more comfortably explore residence hall options in the fall."
When including the cost of tuition, fees, books and other personal expenses, the overall reduction in the cost of education for students residing on campus will be 9%, the university revealed on Tuesday.
“We will continue to look for ways to reduce expenses for students and provide additional support to families to help cover the added costs brought on by the pandemic,” said Executive Vice President and Provost John Wiencek.
The University's decision to not seek a tuition increase will apply to any degree program at Akron's main campus or its regional campuses in Lakewood, Medina or on the Wayne College Campus in Orrville.
As part of the Ohio Tuition Guarantee program, incoming students will be able to take advantage of UA’s tuition freeze which guarantees that tuition remains the same for the next four years for Ohio residents.
“We value our students and realize that college affordability is something we must examine,” said Miller. “As our institution progresses, we must continue to honor our people, our place and our promises to those who call UA home. We think this is a step in the right direction.”