Dear OU Community,
The University of Oklahoma was created to do what no other higher education institution can: transform lives, uplift Oklahoma, and keep the American Dream within reach. In a time of rapid change across higher education, OU is thriving, and our momentum has never been stronger.
This progress isn’t by chance. It stems from the bold goals set forth in our “Lead On, University” Strategic Plan and our unwavering commitment to deliver both excellence and affordability. The results are stunning. We’ve welcomed four consecutive record-breaking freshman classes, seen the largest percentage enrollment increase in nearly five decades, and significantly increased need-based aid and scholarships awarded to students. Combined with a reduction of $150 million in annual operating costs since 2018, our efforts have resulted in a 27% decrease over the last six years in the amount the average resident freshman pays to attend OU.
Proudly and boldly: A degree from the University of Oklahoma is more affordable and valuable today than it was six years ago. And more students than ever are choosing OU.
We must continue this momentum. That’s why, today, the Regents approved the 2025-2026 academic year budget to further bolster OU’s standing as a national leader in affordable, high-quality education. The budget includes a strategic 3% adjustment in tuition and mandatory fees for most undergraduate and graduate students on the Norman campus and in OU Online programs and a 2% to 4% adjustment for most undergraduate and graduate programs on the Health Sciences campus.
These increases are a necessary to help fulfill the university’s refreshed Strategic Plan, which sharpens our focus through five updated pillars. These refined goals elevate the university’s drive to improve health outcomes, pursue Association of American Universities (AAU) membership, and continue creating opportunities for students to thrive.
Other key components of the tuition adjustment are a merit-based raise program to help OU recruit and retain outstanding faculty and staff in a competitive talent landscape; new strategic faculty positions to advance academic and research endeavors; expanding student opportunities through increased access to study abroad, undergraduate research, and high-impact learning experiences; and addressing critical deferred maintenance projects. These investments are central to fulfilling OU’s pursuit of delivering an affordable and accessible education while driving innovation and discovery.
To learn more about our efforts to keep OU affordable, I invite you to view the video illustration below or visit our FAQ page. If you or any student you know has questions about how to afford tuition, our dedicated team in the Student Financial Center stands ready to help.
Thank you for your continued commitment to our mission. It’s your dedication, energy, and belief in our shared purpose that make OU such an extraordinary place to learn, discover, and serve.
Live On, University,
Joseph Harroz, Jr.
President
