Cost of attendance

Cost of Attendance

The Cost of Attendance (COA) is a comprehensive estimate of the total expenses a student will incur while attending a particular college or university for an academic year. This figure is crucial for students and their families as it helps them understand the financial commitment required for higher education and aids in the planning and securing of necessary financial aid.

Components of Cost of Attendance

The Cost of Attendance typically includes the following components:

• Tuition and Fees: The amount charged by the institution for instruction and other mandatory fees.
• Room and Board: The cost of housing and meals, whether on-campus or off-campus.
• Books and Supplies: The estimated cost of textbooks, course materials, and other supplies required for classes.
• Transportation: Expenses related to commuting to and from the institution, including public transportation or personal vehicle costs.
• Personal Expenses: Miscellaneous costs such as laundry, personal care items, and entertainment.
• Loan Fees: Fees associated with student loans, if applicable.

Importance of Cost of Attendance

Understanding the Cost of Attendance is essential for several reasons:

• It helps students and families budget for the total cost of education.
• It is used by the institution's financial aid office to determine a student's financial need.
• It provides a basis for comparing the affordability of different institutions.

Financial Aid and Cost of Attendance

The Cost of Attendance plays a significant role in the financial aid process. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and other financial aid applications use the COA to calculate the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) and determine the amount of need-based aid a student is eligible to receive. The difference between the COA and the EFC is known as the student's financial need.

Adjustments to Cost of Attendance

Institutions may adjust the Cost of Attendance for individual students based on special circumstances. These adjustments can be made for:

• Additional costs related to a student's disability.
• Dependent care expenses.
• Study abroad programs.
• Unusual transportation costs.

Related Pages

• Tuition
• Financial aid
• Expected Family Contribution
• Free Application for Federal Student Aid
• Room and Board
• Student loan