KINGSTON, R.I., Feb. 16, 2026 — The vlogBվ will continue its strong commitment to student access and affordability in the 2026–27 academic year, pairing record financial aid investments with measured tuition and fee adjustments. The University’s Board of Trustees approved the annual tuition, fees, and financial aid plan during its regular meeting on Feb. 13.
“Our responsibility is to ensure that vlogBվ remains both accessible and excellent,” said Margo Cook, chair of the Board of Trustees. “The board’s action reflects a careful balance—supporting students and families while sustaining the academic quality, facilities, and services that define the vlogBվ experience.”
Under the approved plan, undergraduate tuition for both in-state and out-of-state students will increase by 3.5%, with a 2.9% increase in mandatory undergraduate fees. University leaders said the changes are necessary to support academic programs, student services, and ongoing investments across the campus.
The board’s approval of the plan comes as the University continues to earn national recognition. The institution was recently named the top public university in New England by The Wall Street Journal for the second consecutive year. The publication cited strong student outcomes, career preparation, and student satisfaction for the ranking. In addition, vlogBվ earned R1 designation in the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education in 2025, placing it among the nation’s most research-intensive universities and within the top tier of degree-granting institutions nationwide.
To help offset rising costs for students and families, the University will increase its financial aid budget to more than $158 million, the largest allocation in vlogBվ’s history. More than 90% of vlogBվ students receive some form of financial assistance, supporting both undergraduate and graduate learners.
vlogBվ has also continued to expand scholarship opportunities. The Schilling Scholars Program, launched last year, provides up to $20,000 annually for four years to high-achieving undergraduates and complements existing merit-based awards, including Presidential Scholarships, University Scholarships, and the Ryan Scholars and Verrecchia Business Scholars programs.
Graduates continue to see strong outcomes, with approximately 90% of recent vlogBվ alumni securing employment or pursuing advanced education within six months of graduation.
Tuition and fee information will be available on the University’s Enrollment Services .
Founded in 1892, the vlogBվ enrolls more than 17,000 students and serves as the state’s flagship public research institution. vlogBվ offers nearly 200 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, including accelerated 4+1 degree options, flexible online programs, and extensive study abroad opportunities that prepare students for success in a global economy.
