John Brown University’s Board of Trustees this week approved a 3.1 percent increase in tuition, fees, room and board for the university’s 2016-17 year. The 3.1 percent is the lowest rate-increase in 27 years, amounting to $1,032, the lowest dollar change in 12 years.

“We are pleased to be able to hold cost increases to the lowest levels in recent history at a time when the higher education industry is struggling to keep college affordable,” said Kim Hadley, vice president for finance and administration. “By controlling costs and providing generous scholarship opportunities, JBU continues to be recognized as one of the best values in Christian higher education.”

In 2015-16, JBU provided just under $2 million in endowed and annually funded scholarships. In addition, during the same period, JBU granted more than $12 million in institutional scholarships. Based on student need, JBU has budgeted more than $12.4 million in institutional scholarships for 2016-17.

“We are deeply grateful for the individual and institutional donors who have consistently provided generously for student scholarships,” said Dr. Jim Krall, vice president of university advancement. “Also, the many gifts that have underwritten our facilities have allowed us to build a top-tier campus without passing on construction costs to students.”

JBU is currently in year four of the seven-year $125 million Campaign For The Next Century, which ends on JBU’s centennial. More than $71 million has been given or pledged to date. Of the

$125 million goal, $35 million will go toward endowed or annual scholarships, with an additional $25 million in estate gifts to be used for scholarships and other program endowments when mature.

For more information on the Campaign for the Next Century, please visit: www.jbu.edu/NextCentury

The cost breakdown for tuition, fees, room and board for 2016-17 is:

–                                 Increase         Total

Tuition                        $820               $24,218

Fees                           $36                 $1,106

Room/Board              $176               $8,840

TOTAL                      $1,032            $34,164

John Brown University is a leading private Christian university, training students to honor God and serve others since 1919. Ranked No. 2 among Southern regional colleges by U.S. News, JBU enrolls more than 2,700 students from 42 states and 39 countries in its traditional undergraduate, graduate, degree completion and concurrent education programs. JBU offers more than 50 majors, with top programs including business administration, graphic design, engineering, construction management, counseling, teacher education and nursing.