Central College has announced its annual price increase for next year.

Total price for tuition, room and board will be 2.9 percent higher. The increase is identical to last year — and less than previous 3.5 and 3.95 percent increases.

Tuition for 2017-18 will be $35,930, with room and board remaining at $9,980. The minimal tuition increase covers increased costs of operation.

“As part of Central College’s ongoing commitment to affordability, we continue to do all we can to limit costs and to partner with students to ensure that a Central education is accessible to all,” said Central College President Mark Putnam in a release. “We’ve reduced annual expenditures more than $3.1 million over the last four years and are committed to reducing costs further, without compromising the quality of a Central education.”

The college sasy more than 99 percent of students receive financial aid, including scholarships supported by alumni and donors. Financial aid packages awarded may include scholarships, gift assistance, work study and student loans.

Donor support of students and Central’s mission extends beyond scholarships, too. Central has raised nearly $31 million since fiscal year 2012. These donations support many strategic initiatives, including academic and student development, faculty development, athletics and global experiential learning, as well as student aid and the Journey Scholarship Fund.