FREE TUITION HAS ITS PRICE, TOO

In France, where tuition costs almost nothing, universities pile on supplementary fees. And in tuition-free Ireland, registration fees run about $2,650.

BRAZIL

While public higher education remains free, discussion continues about the introduction of some type of tuition fee for wealthy students – a proposal that has been vigorously rejected by academics, students and unions.

CHILE

Average tuition fees rose by 26 per cent at public universities, making it among the most expensive systems in the world.

CHINA

Tuition was frozen through 2011 at 2006 levels. But user fees have increase and tuition is expected to rise significantly in 2012.

NETHERLANDS

Students under 30 pay a statutory tuition fee. Tuition increased slightly in 2011 and is expected to go up to $1,925 in 2012. Last July, a law was passed requiring students who take longer than an extra year to complete their studies to pay $3,261 per year.

SWEDEN

Domestic students pay no fees, but a new rule has students from outside the European Union paying significant fees of as much as $15,552 per year. Early estimates suggest new enrolments from outside the EU fell by nearly 80 per cent.

UNITED KINGDOM

Capped fees at English and Northern Ireland universities has risen to $14,754, with about 30 per cent of English institutions planning to charge that as the standard fee in 2012.

UNITED STATES

Tuition fees increased substantially across all sectors of higher education. There is considerable variation between states and types of institutions. The percentage increase in tuition was highest in California (21 per cent) and lowest in Connecticut and South Carolina (2.5 per cent).