DES MOINES, Iowa — Iowa college students are speaking out about a pending decision on proposed tuition increases at all three state universities.

The University of Northern Iowa increase is proposed to be 2.7%, while there is a suggested increase of 3% for both Iowa State University and the University of Iowa.

The increase will add $279 to the cost of tuition at the University of Iowa. Student body President Thomas Knudsen, a junior, says the annual increases are adding up.

“If this trend continues, it’s the difference in pursuing a four-year degree or pursuing some sort of alternative option. Now, since I started as a freshman, the cost of attendance has steadily increased. Now, if this proposed increase is approved, it’s around a $1,200 increase since my freshman year alone.  A rise of close to 12 percent,” said Knudsen.

The Iowa Board of Regents will vote on the proposed increase at its next meeting on June 10th. The Iowa State Legislature gave no funding increases to Iowa’s state universities in this year’s budget.