Temple University’s Board of Trustees Executive Committee today decided to hold its 2009-2010 tuition increase to a historically low 2.9 percent, with a provision to revisit tuition later if the currently proposed $21 million state appropriation cut passes. Pennsylvania has not yet passed its budget for the current fiscal year or its appropriation for Temple.

“We believe this is in the best interests of our students and their families, many of whom are facing extremely tough economic circumstances,” said Ann Weaver Hart, president of Temple University. 

Today’s decision means Temple’s tuition increase remains among the lowest of public schools in Pennsylvania, with the University of Pittsburgh at 2.9 percent and the State System of Higher Education schools at 3.7 percent. The Pennsylvania State University today announced an increase ranging from 3.7 to 4.5 percent depending on campus location and residency status.