The Board of Trustees voted in November to increase tuition by 6.5 percent to $34,500 for the 2012-2013 academic year in order to continue enhancing the university experience. Overall financial aid also will increase by 6.5 percent.

“Our students desire a high-quality educational experience that includes a personalized setting with a low student-to-faculty ratio, facilities equipped with cutting-edge technology and an exceptional on-campus living environment,” said Chancellor Victor J. Boschini, Jr. in an email explaining the decision to students. “At the same time, we also know our students require support to obtain a TCU degree. That’s why we’re increasing financial aid and are continuing to focus on raising $100 million in endowed scholarships.”

The increase will help TCU continue investing in key areas such as:

— Faculty: The school added 17 new faculty positions for 2011-12, which maintains a 13:1 faculty-to-student ratio.

— Student services: TCU added staff positions in Career Services, the Health and Counseling Center, Campus Life and Academic Support.

— Resources: The university provided additional funding for the library and technology resources, renovated all chemistry labs and opened the newly renovated Erma Lowe Hall, which houses the School of Classical & Contemporary Dance. The board also approved construction of two new residence halls to meet student demand for on-campus housing.

The board’s announcement was met with concern by a group of about 40 students, who initiated a rally they dubbed “Occupy Sadler” to question the decision and call for more transparency.

Boschini met with the group and explained that a tuition increase is not an easy decision, but it was approved to improve the value of students’ education and experience.

“The board met and announced their actions in the same way that they have done it every year for the past five years,” he told them. “TCU sets its tuition costs in the fall so that students and their families have time to respond to it.”