Southeast Missouri State University approves room and board rate increase amidst enrollment shifts

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) — The Southeast Missouri State University Board of Governors has approved a 3.3% average increase in room and board rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.

The increase, approved during the board’s Friday meeting, includes a 3.4% average hike in room rates and a 3% average increase in board rates.

University officials cited rising costs, including inflation, debt service, facility maintenance and food and labor expenses, as the reason for the increase.

Despite the hike, officials said the university’s room and board rates remain competitive, and affordability and value for students remain a priority.

The university also reported a growing demand for single-occupancy rooms, with a quarter of on-campus students currently living in single rooms.

While overall headcount enrollment is down 3.4% compared to spring 2024, the university reported increases in several areas, including new transfer student enrollment, online degree programs, Early College Programs and the Intensive English Program. MBA enrollment also saw a 45% increase.