The Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) has numerous responsibilities related to the state funding of Oregon's seven public universities. The information here will introduce you to the processes of state funding for the public universities.
The following are the primary sources of funding for public universities.
- state funding, primarily through the Public University Support Fund
- tuition revenue
- federal and other revenue
The universities also receive state-financed bonds to support capital projects.
State Funding Processes for Public Universities
The HECC develops the funding recommendations to the Oregon Governor and Legislature for the state’s seven public universities. The funding decisions are made biennially, meaning they are made for a period of two years. The HECC also distributes the funds and analyzes and reports on the financial investments.
The Public University Support Fund (PUSF) is the primary source of state funding supporting educational and operational expenses at Oregon’s seven public universities. HECC develops funding recommendations for the PUSF, as well as for Public University State Programs, Statewide Public Service Programs, and other funds. Information on the legislative and budget process is available through the link below.
Legislative Resources and Budget Development
After the biennial budget is determined by the Legislature and Governor, the HECC is then responsible for distribution of PUSF funds among the seven universities. The distribution of state funding to the seven Oregon public universities is determined using the Student Success and Completion Model (SSCM).
How to Stay Engaged in State Funding
As a state funding and policy coordination agency, the HECC works closely with the seven public universities and other partners on the state funding processes. The universities are governed by independent boards. We welcome engagement in this work.
Our public processes related to the funding of the seven public universities are conducted at public meetings, often starting in the HECC Funding and Achievement subcommittee. Learn how to stay engaged with us or subscribe to public meeting notices here.
Tuition and Fee Setting Process
Tuition and Fee Increases
Universities are generally responsible for setting annual tuition and fees. When the universities propose an annual increase of more than 5 percent for undergraduate tuition and mandatory fees, there must be approval from either the HECC or the Oregon Legislature.
How to Stay Engaged in Tuition and Fee Increase Proposals to the HECC
Student Fees
When student fees (mandatory incidental fees) are modified or rejected by an institutional board or administration, student governments may appeal that decision at the HECC. Student governments may contact
info.hecc@hecc.oregon.gov to learn more.
State Funding Summary: Oregon Public Institutions
At the end of each Legislative Session the PFC office publishes a State Funding and Formula Summary. The summary includes the budget allocation for the public community colleges and universities. This summary is a reference document and includes both institutional support for the public institutions and capital funding. It also provides detailed information on how funding distribution formulas work. View the most recent summary below.
State Funding and Formula Summary, 2023-25State Funding and Formula Summary, 2021-23
This information was previously presented as a Budget Report. Read past university budget reports below.