Trustees update graduate residency policy, change nonresident graduate tuition structure and rates

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Acting at its formal meeting on Nov. 6, the Western Michigan University Board of Trustees adopted a simplified nonresident graduate student tuition rate structure. The board also approved a measure designed to align the graduate student residency policy with the undergraduate policy.

Beginning summer II in 2020, graduate students who are admitted and enrolled for the first time at WMU will retain the residency status that was determined at the time of their admission, mirroring the residency procedure for undergraduates.

Additionally, with the onset of summer II next year, the nonresident graduate student tuition rate will be 1.5 times the resident rate for students at WMU’s main campus and regional sites.
This upcoming change is the result of a comprehensive review of graduate tuition rates and tuition assessment rules, which are evaluated for effectiveness and market competitiveness.

Historically, WMU has charged different graduate tuition rates based on residency status as well as type of course and location the course is offered.

As students have required greater flexibility in course offerings, many take advantage of the multiple course opportunities provided to them. As a result, a student can be enrolled in main campus courses, courses held at WMU's regional sites and also take classes online.

Under a multiple tuition rate structure, it can be difficult for students to grasp the total tuition and fees that will be assessed.

To take effect summer II of 2020, students will be assessed graduate tuition rates based on their primary campus of registration versus course location. Main campus rates will apply for all courses taken if a student is admitted as and remains a main campus student.

The regional site rates will be applicable if a student is admitted by Extended University Programs in a program that is associated with a regional site and the student maintains this affiliation. The online rate will apply if the student is admitted to and continues with an online program.

"These changes are intended to bring greater clarity and transparency to our tuition structure, and also boost WMU's competitive edge in the higher education marketplace," says Jan Van Der Kley, vice president for business and finance.

Background materials on this and other matters the board considered at its meeting Wednesday are posted at wmich.edu/trustees.

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