Community College of Philadelphia Board of Trustees approves proposal to increase College tuition for first time in nine years

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 12, 2026

Contact:
Antwon R. Martin
armartin [at] ccp.edu (armartin[at]ccp[dot]edu)
267.666.7881

Cost per credit hour will increase from $159 to $174. Fees to remain flat.

PHILADELPHIA – The Community College of Philadelphia Board of Trustees approved plans to increase the College’s tuition for the first time in nine years. Beginning with the Fall 2026 semester, the cost per credit hour will increase from $159 to $174, signifying a $15 adjustment. Student fees will remain unchanged.

The decision follows extensive financial analysis, cost-control efforts and the strategic use of College reserve funds to maintain operations and minimize the impact on students. The increase reflects several factors, including rising operating costs, flat public funding in an inflationary environment and sustained enrollment growth that requires additional investment in faculty, facilities, and student support services.

“We do not make this decision lightly,” said CCP President Dr. Alycia Marshall. “This adjustment reflects our responsibility to balance access and affordability with long-term fiscal sustainability. After nine years without a tuition increase, and in a climate of rising costs and flat public investment, this step ensures that Community College of Philadelphia can continue fulfilling its mission of providing high-quality, accessible education to Philadelphia residents for years to come.”

Approximately 60% of CCP students receive Federal Pell Grant funding, which will continue to cover the cost of tuition for eligible students even with the increase.

As the highest enrolled community college in the commonwealth, the College serves more than 21,000 students annually and has worked diligently to manage increasing operational costs while expanding services and academic opportunities. Even with this increase, CCP’s tuition will remain in the middle range among Pennsylvania’s 15 community colleges based on currently available data. Several peer institutions across the Commonwealth have increased tuition in recent years and are expected to do so again this year.

The Board of Trustees views the adjustment as a last-resort measure necessary to preserve academic quality, student services, and the long-term stability of the institution.

“Even with this increase, the first in nine years, Community College of Philadelphia remains the most affordable higher education option in the region,” said Harold T. Epps, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “Our priority is to keep education accessible while ensuring the College remains financially strong and able to serve future generations of students.”

The College remains committed to supporting students as costs rise. CCP will continue expanding institutional aid and scholarships, strengthening payment plan options, increasing fundraising and corporate partnerships and advocating for increased public investment alongside the Student Government Association and the Faculty and Staff Federation. The College will work collaboratively with students, faculty, staff, and alumni to advocate for increased city and state funding.

CCP staff will be available to assist students and families with questions about the tuition change and available financial support.

Reasons for proposed tuition increase

Rising operating costs
Community College of Philadelphia continues to face inflationary pressures across utilities, technology, insurance, facilities maintenance, and contracted services. In addition, the recently concluded Collective Bargaining Agreement reflects the College’s commitment to fairly compensating faculty and staff, resulting in necessary recurring cost increases that support both employees and the student experience.

Flat public funding
City and state appropriations have remained largely flat. In an inflationary environment, flat funding results in a decrease in real dollars available to support the College’s operations. Federal pandemic-era grants that previously supported enrollment recovery and stabilization are also diminishing or sunsetting. Responsible governance requires the College to address these funding gaps. Because CCP’s funding model relies heavily on tuition revenue, adjustments are necessary to offset stagnant public funding.

Associated costs with enrollment growth
CCP has experienced steady enrollment growth since the 2022–23 academic year. Total enrollment for 2024–25 exceeded 21,000 students, representing an 8 percent increase compared with 2022–23. While enrollment growth reflects the College’s mission and impact, it also brings additional costs. Increased enrollment requires more course sections, additional faculty capacity, expanded advising and student support services, and increased use of technology, instructional materials, and campus facilities. Sustaining this growth requires additional resources to ensure students continue receiving a high-quality educational experience.

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About Community College of Philadelphia 

Community College of Philadelphia is the largest public institution of higher education in the City of Philadelphia. With an open admissions policy, the College serves all who may benefit – regardless of age, income, or ability. For 60 years, the College has lived up to its mission and goals by providing educational access for over 700,000 Philadelphians, setting families, businesses and neighborhoods on the path of shared prosperity and opportunity. For information on the College's degree and certificate programs, workforce development strategies, and community engagement initiatives, visit ccp.edu and follow us on social media @CCPedu.Cost per credit hour will increase from $159 to $174. Fees to remain flat.