As per Fall 2012, the tuition fees for students at the American University in Cairo have increased by 7%, During the academic year 2011/2012, tuition tees also increased by 9%.

We,the students of the American University in Cairo as well as the undersigned petitioners, oppose this sudden increase in tuition fees, which for many Egyptians is difficult to afford. Not only that, but the University administration, and especially President Lisa Anderson (President of the American University in Cairo) has so far not provided any reason as to why this sudden increase in tuition fees occurs.

We, the undersigned, not only demand a full explanation be given but also the full financial disclosure of the university’s budget.  Moreover, we demand that the university upholds the principles of transparancy and accountability – some of the core principles of good governance – which are especially crucial given the current political changes Egypt is going through. Furthermore, we believe that the increase in fees is especially objectionable when one takes into account that the fees of the American University in Cairo exceed rates charged by more reputable Universities on American soil. 

For example, a Summer Session at the American University in Cairo costs $ 2212.11 whereas a Summer Session at California State University-Long Beach costs $ 858.  A normal semester at the American University in Cairo costs $ 6723.67 whilst a similar semester at California State University-Long Beach costs $ 3369. 

Of course the American University in Cairo is not a State University. Yet its extortionate fees can hardly be justified on this basis alone since California State University is ranked within top 600 Universities of the world, whereas the American University in Cairo is ranked number 1028.  One thus cannot say that that the high fees are reflected in the quality of its delivery.  We thus demand full accountability and full financial disclosure as the first step to dicuss the disparity between the high fees and the level of education.

Please show your support for our campaign and sign with your name, email - and in the comment section please note your institutional affiliation and position.

American University in Cairo Students

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