Rising higher education costs and increasing student debt have been highlighted on a national level and are a growing concern in a global job market that demands highly skilled workers, particularly in light of this difficult fiscal climate. According to the College Board, the national average price of tuition, fees, room and board, after financial aid and tuition tax credits are deducted, has reached $12,110 at public four-year colleges ($17,860 is the average sticker price) for resident students and $23,840 at private nonprofit institutions ($39,518 is the average sticker price). New York State has historically sought to address issues of affordability and accessibility by maintaining two quality public university systems and by providing a college savings program, tuition tax credits and financial assistance to working families through programs, scholarships and grants such as the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP).

Ensuring that New York State colleges, especially our public university systems, remain a competitive and affordable option so that all students have access to a quality college education has always been a priority for the Assembly Higher Education Committee. This hearing will seek testimony from New York State public and private universities as well as from students and other interested parties on the increasing cost of higher education, including the impact of Chapter 260 of the Laws of 2011; an analysis of where this increasing revenue is going; recent trends in student enrollment; and information on the impact that state and federal financial assistance are having on the cost of higher education to our students and their families.

Persons wishing to present pertinent testimony to the Committee at the above hearing should complete and return the enclosed reply form as soon as possible. It is important that the reply form be fully completed and returned so that persons may be notified in the event of emergency postponement or cancellation.

Ten copies of any prepared testimony should be submitted at the hearing registration desk. The Committee would appreciate advance receipt of prepared statements.

In order to meet the needs of those who may have a disability, the Assembly, in accordance with its policy of non-discrimination on the basis of disability, as well as the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), has made its facilities and services available to all individuals with disabilities. For individuals with disabilities, accommodations will be provided, upon reasonable request, to afford such individuals access and admission to Assembly facilities and activities.

Hon. Deborah J. Glick
Member of Assembly
Chairperson
Committee on Higher Education

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Persons wishing to present testimony at the public hearing on The Cost of Higher Education in New York State are requested to complete this reply form as soon as possible and mail, email or fax it to: