Bethel President Jonathan Gering announced Monday that the Board of Directors has approved a 3% increase in tuition, room, and board rates for the 2026–2027 academic year.
The decision, made during the Board’s early October meeting, follows a proposal from President Gering and the Cabinet as part of Bethel’s annual budget planning process. According to Gering, the increase reflects rising operational costs and the need to maintain the quality of the student experience.
“This decision was not easy,” Gering wrote in a message to students. “It was influenced by many factors, including the rising costs of goods and services the college needs to operate.”
Under the new rates, tuition will rise by approximately $1,072, room costs (based on Haury Hall rates) by about $176, and meal plans by around $142. Gering encouraged students to submit their 2026–2027 FAFSA applications early to ensure access to all available financial aid and invited students to seek assistance from the Office of Financial Aid.
In addition to approving the rate adjustments, the Board also voted to advance several academic and campus initiatives. These include the addition of a new Sport Management major and approval of six other academic programs. The Board also endorsed a four-year comprehensive fundraising campaign aimed at supporting key campus projects.
Planned projects include renovations to Haury Hall, upgrades to the Allen Wedel Softball Field, and restorations of several historic homes on College Avenue. The campaign will also fund the Employment Experiences program, the Bethel College Fund (which supports operations), and the launch of new online degree programs in Data Science and Cybersecurity.
Another major investment will go toward implementing a new Learning Management System (LMS) to enhance Bethel’s growing digital badging and online learning efforts.
“These initiatives will position Bethel College as a leader in career readiness,” Gering wrote.