UMass President: Students Fees May Increase

University of Massachusetts President Jack Wilson says the university is facing a $54.5 million budget gap for the next fiscal year and student fees may be raised to close it.

Wilson said Thursday he anticipates a 2 to 3 percent increase in student fees to cover inflation, but a decision on anything beyond that depends on the legislative budget process. He expects a firm announcement on fees by early June.

The Republican of Springfield reports that Wilson was a key speaker at a State house meeting to organize a new caucus of legislators to promote public higher education and work for more state support.

Gov. Deval Patrick has proposed a $429 million budget for the five-campus system for the fiscal year that starts July 1. That's the same amount as this year.