UM-Flint's 2026-27 budget grows 9.6% on strength of enrollment gains

The University of Michigan-Flint's financial outlook for the 2026-27 fiscal year reflects the university's strongest enrollment-driven growth in recent memory, with a $151.7 million general fund budget approved by the Board of Regents on June 25.

The FY 2027 budget outlines spending for the fiscal year beginning July 1 and projects a state appropriation of $27 million, which is unchanged from FY 2026. The actual state appropriation will be confirmed after the state budget is finalized in the coming weeks.

The $13.3 million increase — a 9.6% increase from the prior year — is driven by a third consecutive year of enrollment growth in FY 2026, with continued growth expected in the coming year.

"This budget is a direct reflection of the confidence students and families are placing in a UM-Flint education," said Chancellor Laurence B. Alexander. "Enrollment growth of this magnitude creates real opportunity — to invest in our people, expand our academic offerings and ensure that the momentum we've built continues to benefit every member of our community."

Tuition and fees for in-state undergraduate students will increase by 4.1% to $8,135 per semester for the most common lower-division rate. Most graduate programs will see tuition and fees increase by 4%.

The new budget prioritizes a salary program for faculty and staff, additional investments for new and growing academic programs, strategic planning initiatives, operational cost increases, infrastructure improvements, deferred maintenance, mandatory cost increases and student aid needs.

"Our enrollment growth isn't an accident — it's the result of sustained investment in programs and people that serve our students well," Alexander said. "This budget lets us build on that foundation by supporting the faculty and staff who make UM-Flint exceptional, while positioning us to meet the needs of students in the years ahead."

Also approved during the meeting were 5% increases for UM-Flint's housing and meal plan rates. The cost of the First Street Residence Hall, including the required meal plan, will start at $11,943 per year. 

UM-Flint's tuition is the fourth lowest among the 15 public universities in Michigan, and its housing rates are the lowest among the state's public institutions.

"UM-Flint has always prioritized putting a world-class university education within reach for students from all walks of life," Alexander said. "As we grow and invest in new opportunities, affordability and accessibility remain at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to the success of our students, our faculty and our staff — and this budget reflects that commitment."