Download the full guide here. 

How much does college really cost?

Pro Tip:  Look for the school’s Cost of Attendance on the financial aid department’s website - it will include all of these costs with different estimates depending on residency and whether you’re living in dorms or off-campus. 

• Direct Costs, usually paid to the school 
  • Tuition and School Fees
  • On-campus Housing
  • Meal Plan
  • Enrollment Deposit
  • Program Fees, like Flight School
• Indirect Costs, not paid to the school 
  • Course Materials, like Books or Software
  • Fraternity or Sorority Fees
  • Off-campus Housing
  • Utilities and/or Insurance
  • Transportation
  • Entertainment

• your tuition bill, including housing and meal plans if provided by the school
• books and course materials, which you will purchase and pay for separately
• travel to and from the university if you’ll return home between semesters

• rent or housing costs if you aren’t living on campus or staying home with family
• utilities not included in your rent, like electricity, cable/internet, and insurance
• healthcare costs, like prescriptions, routine appointments, and first aid supplies
• subscriptions for any digital services, like Spotify or Microsoft Office

• groceries for off-campus students or meals that aren’t included in your plan
• transportation, like the bus or rideshare services, as well as parking if you drive

•  fraternity or sorority fees if you participate in Greek life