National University Tuition Cost - Worth It?

I'm a junior and I've started exploring my options for college. National University has caught my eye, but I'm a bit concerned about the tuition cost. Can anyone give me an overview about its tuition cost and whether the education quality validates it?

Understanding the tuition cost of National University and its implications on your academic journey is a critical step in your college selection process.

National University is predominantly a private online school, which might skew your perception about its value compared to traditional universities. However, respected online universities like National University offer flexible learning schedules that traditional colleges wouldn't be able to match. This allows students to balance their educational pursuits with other life commitments more effectively.

As of current information, full-time undergraduate tuition at National University averages around $34,000 per year. Now, although this doesn't include other costs such as books, supplies, and personal and living expenses, it's still a considerably less amount compared to many other private schools.

It's important to note that tuition doesn’t cover everything. There are still additional expenses involved such as textbooks, technology fees, and potential residency costs, depending on your specific circumstances. Therefore, the total cost might be higher than you initially estimated. Be sure to factor these in when deciding, and use the net price calculator available on the school's website to get a better estimate of your total cost.

To assess the education quality, you can refer to factors like the university's accreditation, support services, graduation rate, and alumni outcomes. National University is regionally accredited which is the highest form of accreditation. Moreover, the class sizes are often smaller, ensuring that you get the personalized attention you need.

One suggestion would be to reach out to alumni or current students and gather some firsthand accounts of their experiences. This could give you insight into whether the educational experience aligns with the cost.

Before deciding solely based on cost, remember to consider financial aid opportunities. National University does offer financial aid to eligible students and veterans. Applying for financial aid can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses and make your education more affordable.

Ultimately, the worthiness depends on your personal circumstances, academic goals, and financial capacity. Consider these factors and then make an informed decision.