Cost of Attendance Budget

Each class has an established Cost of Attendance (COA) budget designed to cover a student's educational and living expenses; funding is only allowed within the parameters of the start/end dates of the academic year. The standard COA for each class, developed in accordance with federal guidelines, allows for a reasonable standard of living for a single student in the community. Each year the major components of the budget are reviewed and modified, if necessary, based on changes in costs. To help verify that allowable expenses and amounts included in budgets remain reasonable, the Office of Student Financial Services will periodically survey students to gather information about 'actual' expenses incurred.

Representative expense categories in every budget include:

• Tuition and Fees
• Books, course materials, supplies
• Living expenses for housing and food
• Transportation Expenses
• Personal Expenses including insurances

Some programs may include technology, equipment, or other fees as well. In all instances, federal regulations govern what is allowable in the budgets. 

While many students find it necessary to borrow to pay for higher education, we highly encourage students to live as modestly as possible with a thrifty budget. Minimizing debt while in school can lead to financial freedom down the road and lower repayment after graduation. The staff in the Student Financial Services are always available to discuss any questions surrounding budgeting within our COA limits.

Online Application Process

The online financial aid application and instructions are updated annually and made available to all enrolled students. Newly accepted students who have paid the matriculation deposit will have additional access to other relevant financial aid resources in Canvas on the student portal.