2008-2009 Cost of Attendance
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Each year the Financial Aid Office determines the cost of attendance (COA) for the academic year.
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This COA includes tuition and fees as well as an allowance for room and board, books and supplies, transportation and personal expenses. Financial aid, including Graduate PLUS and private loans, cannot exceed this cost of attendance.
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Because this COA includes allowances for living expenses it is not indicative of what the student will owe the Student Accounts Office. Here is a complete listing of all charges and fees.
A sample budget for a day student living away from parents is:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition and fees | $38,450 |
| Room and board | $15,526 |
| Books and supplies | $ 1,050 |
| Personal expenses | $ 3,916 |
| Transportation | $ 3,890 |
| Loan Fees | $976 |
| Total cost of attendance | $63,808 |
Eligibility for “need based” financial aid is calculated by subtracting the student’s expected family contribution (calculated by the federal processor based upon the student’s income and assets) from the total cost of attendance. For example:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Total cost of attendance | $63,808 |
| Expected family contribution | $10,000 |
| Eligibility for "need based" aid | $53,808 |
This student’s typical financial aid award would be:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Subsidized Stafford loan (need based) | $8,500 |
| Unsubsidized Stafford loan (non need based) | $12,000 |
| Grad PLUS or Private loan (non need based) | $43,308 |
| Total financial aid offered | $63,808 |
The cost of attendance can only be increased for certain expenses the student incurs during the current academic year. The allowable expenses are limited to:
- Computer purchase costs
- Car repair expenses (not including standard maintenance)
- Medical and dental expenses not covered by insurance
- Child care costs
- Elementary/secondary tuition costs for dependents