Hailey
3% Tuition Hike Announced Amid NIL Revenue Rollout: The University of Oklahoma (OU) has declared a 3% increase in tuition, marking the fifth consecutive year students will face higher education costs.
This latest hike aligns with the university’s unveiling of a new Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) revenue-sharing initiative, which will provide direct compensation to student-athletes across six sports programs.
Legislator Attributes Rising Costs to State Funding Cuts
Bennett: Decline in State Support Driving Tuition Up
State Representative Forrest Bennett (D-Oklahoma City) labeled the tuition spike as reflective of a broader issue—insufficient state investment in higher education.
“This trend of reduced funding inevitably leads to tuition increases,” Bennett stated. He expressed hope that Oklahoma would recommit to supporting public universities.
Bennett pointed out that in 2000, state appropriations made up 40% of OU’s budget. Today, in 2025, that share has dropped to just 22%. He argues this shortfall forces institutions to rely on tuition and private donations to remain financially stable.
“If the state isn’t providing adequate support, should it have the authority to dictate how the university operates?” Bennett asked.
OU: Tuition Rise Aimed at Expanding Student Access
OU President Joseph Harroz stated that the additional tuition revenue will be directed toward increasing scholarships and resources for underrepresented communities.
Bennett expressed agreement with this goal, noting that improving access to higher education for low-income students is preferable to limiting admissions.
“I’d rather see a small increase in tuition if it means more students get the chance to attend college,” Bennett added.
Although some criticized the move due to its timing — coinciding with the $20.5 million NIL rollout — OU has denied any connection between the tuition hike and athlete payments. The university also revealed it has boosted need-based financial aid by nearly 50% to help mitigate rising costs.
NIL Plan to Benefit Multiple Sports
Bennett commended OU for broadening its NIL compensation plan beyond football, covering six sports including softball, which he highlighted as a major sport in the state.
“I was glad to see Oklahoma recognizing athletes in sports beyond football. The effort and dedication of all student-athletes deserve acknowledgment,” he said.
Legislative Oversight of NIL Urged
Athlete-Centric Policy Needed, Bennett Says
Bennett emphasized the importance of placing student-athletes at the center of any new NIL legislation. He vowed to ensure that future discussions in the legislature prioritize fairness and sustainability.
Reflecting on his time at OU, Bennett noted the economic hardship faced by athletes, despite their substantial contribution to university revenue.
“Just covering tuition is not enough. I knew athletes who were widely recognized yet couldn’t afford basic necessities like food,” he remarked.
Oklahoma State Takes a Different Route
In contrast, Oklahoma State University (OSU) has frozen tuition for the fourth year in a row while distributing NIL funds across seven sports. This presents an alternative model that combines financial stability with athlete compensation.
Future of NIL and University Funding Remains Uncertain
Bennett stressed that the state must make a clear decision about its role in shaping higher education policy and funding flagship institutions.
“Oklahoma can’t tightly regulate NIL while withholding financial support,” he said. “We need to find a balance that works for everyone — students, athletes, and institutions.”
The University of Oklahoma’s tuition increase, paired with its expanding NIL revenue-sharing strategy, highlights the evolving financial landscape of public universities.
With state funding on the decline, institutions are being forced to adapt — whether through higher tuition, private donations, or athlete compensation.
As legislative oversight of NIL gains momentum, the state must determine how to fairly fund higher education while respecting institutional autonomy and supporting students of all backgrounds.