When computing financial aid eligibility, the first figure used in the formula is the Cost of Attendance (COA). The Financial Aid Office determines the estimated amount it will cost you to attend college for a standard academic year (see standard COA detailed below) based on rules established by the Department of Education.
The COA consists of 'direct' and 'indirect' expenses. Direct educational expenses are tuition, fees, books and supplies. Indirect educational expenses are projected living expenses, transportation, and personal expenses.
Tuition and fees are based upon the following factors: Domicile - In-State or Out-of-State, Enrollment period – Per semester or Academic Year, and Enrollment level.
Enrollment Level:
Full-Time = 12 or more credits
Three-Quarter Time = 9 - 11 credits
Half-Time = 6 - 8 credits
Less Than Half Time = 5 credits or less
The Financial Aid Office calculates your COA and subtracts the amount you and your family are expected to contribute (as determined by the FAFSA) toward that cost. If there is anything left over, you are considered to have financial need.
For students attending between one and five credits (less than half-time), the COA includes tuition and fees and an allowance for books, supplies, and transportation. It can also include room and board for up to three semesters or the equivalent at the institution, but no more than two of those semesters or the equivalent may be consecutive.
|
Expense |
In-State Dependent Student |
In-State Independent Student |
Out-of-State Dependent Student |
Out-of-State Independent Student |
|
*Tuition and Fees |
$2,496 |
$2,496 |
$5,715 |
$5,715 |
|
Books and Supplies |
$1,000 |
$1,000 |
$1,000 |
$1,000 |
|
Living Expenses |
$3,200 |
$4,450 |
$3,200 |
$4,450 |
|
Transportation |
$1,400 |
$1,400 |
$1,400 |
$1,400 |
|
Personal Expenses |
$1,250 |
$1,250 |
$1,250 |
$1,250 |
|
Total |
$9,346 |
$10,596 |
$12,565 |
$13,815 |
*Tuition and fees are based on 15 credits.
For enrollment less than full-time, the budget items may be reduced.