The University of Calgary is defending a proposal to charge more for dorms with premium views.

Some students are upset that suites on the top two floors could cost an extra $100 per month when two new residence towers open next fall.

Linda Dalgetty, vice president of finance and services at the U of C, says other post-secondary institutions already charge higher rates for premium views.

“We've done a bit of a comparative in the market and we have found both in Alberta, and then also in Calgary, there is a pattern of other institutions meeting that demand by charging a premium … for those people who choose to apply to get … on the upper floors," she said.

Austin Baecker, president of the Residence Students’ Association, says the premium rates could have a divisive effect.

"When you have communities separated completely by these premium rates, you'll have, you know, your upper-class students on the upper floors and middle to lower on the lower floors,” he said.

The university plans to hike rents overall by up to 8.5 per cent next year.

The new rates still have to be approved by the school’s board of governors.