SUNY Purchase students walked out of class and protested rising tuition costs that they said could derail their educational pursuits.

More than 100 students at the campus traded in their books for signs and campaign slogans. Some chanted "Freeze tuition now!"

"How can the state say 'we're built on being affordable' and then put forth plans that raise our tuition $300 every year?" said student Megan Singer.

Students believe the current "rational tuition" policy hurts those who can barely afford college now. The policy allows for the $300 increases annually at SUNY campuses statewide until 2020.

Students accuse the state of ignoring a mandate that ensures revenue from higher tuition is used for additional staff and programs.

SUNY Purchase President Thomas Schwarz issued a statement saying, "I stand firm with your conviction that you should not bear the burden of declining state support."

Junior Gabriella Rodriguez agreed. "It's an issue that needs to be addressed," she said. "We're spending a lot of money on tuition and figuring out how to go through it and get our education," she said.