College Tuition Gap Calculator

College tuition is the price you pay for instruction at a higher education institution. It's typically the largest component of your total college costs, but it's important to understand that tuition is just one piece of the puzzle.

For the 2025-2026 academic year, the average tuition and fees at public four-year institutions is $10,662 for in-state students and $23,630 for out-of-state students. Private nonprofit four-year institutions charge an average of $42,162 in tuition and fees.

Tuition covers the cost of your classes, access to campus facilities like libraries and computer labs, and basic student services. However, it typically does NOT include room and board, books and supplies, transportation costs, personal expenses, health insurance, or lab fees.

The total cost of attendance (COA) includes all these expenses and can be significantly higher than tuition alone. For example, while the average public university charges about $10,662 in tuition, the total cost of attendance averages $27,146 when you include room, board, and other expenses.

The difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition at public universities is one of the most significant factors affecting college costs. Understanding this distinction can literally save you over $100,000 over four years.

Why Does the Difference Exist?

Public universities are funded in part by state tax dollars. State residents (and their families) have been paying these taxes, so they receive a tuition discount as a benefit. Out-of-state students haven't contributed to the state's tax base, so they pay a higher rate.

The Numbers Are Staggering

At flagship universities, the gap is even larger. University of Michigan charges $16,736 in-state vs $57,273 out-of-state (difference: $40,537/year). UC Berkeley charges $14,312 in-state vs $46,326 out-of-state (difference: $32,014/year).

Room and board represents the second-largest college expense after tuition, averaging $12,500 per year nationally.

Room costs cover housing including shared or single dormitory room, utilities, basic furnishings (bed, desk, dresser), internet access, and access to common areas and laundry facilities.

Board refers to your meal plan, typically providing 14-21 meals per week at dining halls, dining dollars or flex points for campus eateries, and access to all-you-care-to-eat facilities.

Tips for reducing room and board costs: Choose a triple or quad room instead of a double, select a smaller meal plan if allowed, live off-campus after required on-campus years, become a Resident Advisor (RA) for free housing, or consider community college for 2 years while living at home.