Coppin State University is cutting the tuition price for out-of-state students by allowing undergraduate students from over 30 states to be eligible for in-state tuition rates upon enrollment.

The proposal, set to take effect in Fall 2024, was approved by the University System of Maryland Board of Regents during a meeting at Coppin State University earlier this year.

At a time where more individuals and families are questioning the value and cost of higher education, our goal is to reduce barriers and increase access to the quality education Coppin State University provides, at an affordable price,” Anthony L. Jenkins, president of Coppin State University, said. “Coppin State gives our students a transformative educational experience in an environment that nurtures, challenges, and empowers them, regardless of their racial or socioeconomic background.”

The in-state tuition offer does not apply to returning undergraduate students, or students pursuing a graduate or doctoral degree.

According to WBFF, school officials say that offering in-state tuition for some out-of-state students will allow Coppin State to expand its enrollment footprint, increase its recruitment of out-of-state students, and strengthen relationships in states where students could have interest in attending an HBCU, either as a first-time or transfer student.

Students living in the following states are eligible for the in-state tuition incentive: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, St. Croix, St. John, St. Thomas, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

“Although our students graduate with student loan debt below the national average, with this initiative, we are demonstrating the return on investment for degree-seekers, by further reducing the financial cost, and allowing students to enjoy the holistic experience of their college years,” Jenkins said.