Hey guys, just trying to understand the landscape a bit more and was wondering about what is considered the most expensive university in the US? I've been hearing talks about some colleges being outrageously expensive, and I'm curious about which one tops the list. Thanks for any info!
Tuition rates for colleges are known to change annually, so it's always good to check the updated amount directly from the institution's official website but as of the latest known data, Columbia University, in New York City, tends to rank among the most expensive.
The published price for tuition and fees for an undergraduate student entering 2024-2025, not including room and board, was about $71,170. If you factor in other costs like housing, meals, books and supplies, and personal expenses, the total cost of attendance can rise to over $93,417 per year.
That said, keep in mind that most students do not pay the full sticker price thanks to financial aid and scholarships. Columbia follows a need-blind admission policy and promises to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need for all students, domestic and international alike, meaning that they commit to making their education affordable for students from all income brackets.
As always, it's critical to consider not just the sticker price of the university, but the net price you are likely to pay — which can often be considerably less after factoring in financial aid and scholarships. Using the Net Price Calculator available on the university's website can give you an early estimate of your potential costs at that institution.
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