Rice University Tuition and Fees
Rice University Tuition and Fees
(Last Updated – 08/2025)
Total Cost of Attendance
Rice University, located in Houston, Texas, is one of the top-ranked private universities in the country. Rice has a 6:1 undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio and a dynamic campus life.
Rice University tuition and fees for the 2024-25 school year totaled $63,799. This is substantially higher than the 2023-24 national average of $41,540 for tuition and fees at private universities.
Costs for 2024-2025
|
Expense |
Cost |
|
Tuition & Fees |
$63,799 |
|
Books & Supplies |
$1,440 |
|
Room & Board |
$18,100 |
|
Other Expenses |
$3,640 |
|
Total Cost of Attendance |
$86,979 |
Financial Aid
A full 70% of undergraduates use financial aid to help with the Rice University cost. This includes student loans, scholarships, and grants.
Explore financial aid options: Texas Student Loan & Scholarship Information
Generally, financial aid is monetary assistance awarded to students based on personal need and merit. Students that qualify for financial aid can use it to pay for college costs like tuition, books, and living expenses.
The federal government is the largest provider of student financial aid. However, aid can also be given by state governments, colleges and universities, private companies, and nonprofits. The different types include:
• Scholarships: These can be awarded by schools and other organizations based on students’ academic excellence, athletic achievement, community involvement, job experience, field of study, and financial need.
• Grants: Generally based on financial need, these can come from federal, state, private, and non-profit organizations.
• Work-study: This federal program provides qualifying students with part-time employment to earn money for expenses while in school.
• Federal student loans: This is money borrowed directly from the U.S. Department of Education. It comes with fixed interest rates that are typically lower than private loans’ rates.
Colleges, universities, and state agencies use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine financial aid eligibility. The FAFSA can be completed online, but note that state and federal and school deadlines may differ.
You can find other financial aid opportunities at sources such as:
• U.S. Department of Education – Learn more about the grants that are bestowed by the federal government
• College Scholarship Service Profile (CSS) – A global college scholarship application used by select institutions to award financial aid
Recommended: The Differences Between Grants, Scholarships, and Loans
Private Student Loans
For Rice University tuition in the academic year 2022-2023, 6% of beginning Rice students took out federal student loans, and 1% took out private student loans that averaged $27,304.
Private loans are funded by private organizations such as banks, online lenders, credit unions, some schools, and state-based or state-affiliated organizations. While federal student loans have interest rates that are regulated by Congress, private lenders follow a different set of regulations so their qualifications and interest rates can vary widely.
What’s more, private loans have variable or fixed interest rates that may be higher than federal loan interest rates, which are always fixed. Private lenders may (but don’t always) require you to make payments on your loans while you are still in school, compared to federal student loans, which you don’t have to start paying back until after you graduate, leave school, or change your enrollment status to less than half-time.
Private loans don’t have a specific application window and can be applied for as needed. However, if you think you may need to take out a private student loan, it’s a good idea to submit your FAFSA first to see what federal aid you may qualify for, as it generally may have better rates and terms.
If you’ve missed the FAFSA deadline or you’re struggling to pay for school throughout the year, private loans can potentially help you make your payments. Just keep in mind that you will need enough lead time for your loan to process and for your lender to send money to your school.
Recommended: Guide to Private Student Loans
Projected 4-Year-Degree Price
The Rice University cost for four years, based on 2024-25 numbers, would be $347,916. In comparison, the average cost (using 2023-24 figures) for a four-year degree at a private institution is $241,680.
Here’s some Student Loan & Scholarship Information for you.
Undergraduate Tuition and Fees
Costs for 2024-25
|
Expense |
Cost |
|
Tuition & Fees |
$63,799 |
|
Room & Board |
$18,100 |
|
Total |
$81,899 |
The total Rice University cost, including tuition, fees, room, and board, totaled $81,899 for undergraduates in 2024-25.
Graduate Tuition and Fees
Costs for 2024-25
|
Expense |
Cost |
|
Tuition |
$56,230 |
|
Fees |
$800 |
|
Total |
$57,030 |
The Rice cost to attend one year of graduate school was $57,030 in 2024-25. This is higher than the average cost of graduate school at a private university, which is $51,770.
There are many options for graduate loans that can help with these costs.
Cost per Credit Hour
Students can choose part-time enrollment at Rice and pay per credit hour. The cost of Rice University per credit hour is $2,620 for new students and $2,491 for continuing students. In addition, there is a part-time enrollment fee of $175 per semester.
Campus Housing Expenses
Costs for 2024-25
|
Expense |
On Campus |
Off Campus |
|
Room & Board |
$18,100 |
$1,759/mo* |
|
Other Expenses |
$3,640 |
$3,640 |
*Average rate based on available one-bedroom apartments listed on Rice University’s off-campus housing website in 2025.
Although Rice students aren’t required to live on campus, the university’s residential life centers around the 11 colleges on campus. The idea is to make it easier to get to know other students in your area of study.
For those who prefer to live off-campus, there are many apartments, duplexes, and houses located nearby.
Rice University Acceptance Rate
Fall 2023
|
Number of Applications |
Number Accepted |
Percentage Accepted |
|
32,473 |
2,597 |
8% |
The Rice University acceptance rate is low. Only 8% of the students who apply to Rice are accepted.
Admission Requirements
Interested in applying to Rice? Here’s what you’ll need to supply along with your application.
Required:
• High school transcript
• Letters of recommendation from school counselor and 2 teachers
• Rice writing supplement (essay)
Recommended:
• SAT or ACT scores
• Interview with Rice alumnus or current student
The Early Decision deadline for Rice is November 1. The Regular Decision deadline is January 4.
SAT and ACT Scores
Standardized test scores are currently not required at Rice. However, it can be helpful to know how other students scored.
|
Subject |
25th Percentile |
75th Percentile |
|
SAT Evidence-Based |
730 |
770 |
|
SAT Math |
770 |
800 |
|
ACT Composite |
34 |
36 |
|
ACT English |
35 |
36 |
|
ACT Math |
33 |
36 |
Popular Majors at Rice University
Rice University offers more than 50 different undergraduate programs, from architecture to engineering to social sciences. Here are the most popular majors.
1. Computer Science
Computer science students learn the theories and models of computational systems. They have the opportunity to participate in research projects in algorithms and complexity, artificial intelligence and robotics, compilers, distributed and parallel computation, graphics and visualization, operating systems, and programming languages.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 158
2. Biosciences
Rice offers both Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees in this area, with major concentrations in Biochemistry, Cell Biology and Genetics, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, and Integrative Biology. It also offers interdisciplinary majors in Environmental Science and Neuroscience.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 70
3. Mechanical Engineering
Students who earn a degree in Mechanical Engineering at Rice go on to work in fields like aerospace engineering, biomedical systems, computational fluid dynamics, computational mechanics, fluids-thermal science, mechanical design, mechanics, robotics, and systems dynamics and controls.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 65
4. Economics
Those pursuing an economics degree will learn about microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics. There are several majors in this department: Economics, Mathematical Economic Analysis, and Managerial Economics and Organizational Sciences.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 59
5. Psychology
Psychology majors take courses like Quantitative Analysis for Social Sciences, Introduction to Cognitive Psychology, Memory, Psychology of Aging, Language Acquisition, and more.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 52
6. Sports Medicine and Exercise Physiology
Part of the Department of Kinesiology, this major focuses on the scientific study of the human body, movement, performance, and exercise. The coursework prepares students for graduate study in allied health, physical therapy, or medicine, as well as careers in fitness or wellness in sport settings.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 52
7. Sport Management
This program gives students a foundation of knowledge in business, management, law, and communication. It includes courses like Sport Ethics, Leading with Service, Sales & Revenue Generation in Sport, and Sport Finance, among others.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 47
8. Statistics
Students can earn either a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science degree in this field, depending on their plan for future work or study. This major centers on probabilistic and statistical ideas and methods in various contexts, including courses such as Introduction to Statistical Machine Learning, Linear Regression, and Uncertainty and Risk in Urban Infrastructures.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 40
9. Cognitive Science
Students in this interdisciplinary program learn about perception, thought, memory, the acquisition and use of language, learning, concept formation, and consciousness. They take courses like Quantitative Analysis for Social Sciences, Methods of Cognitive Science, and Cognitive Science Foundations.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 35
10. Mathematics
The wide array of coursework in this major reflects the many fields that students may pursue after graduation. Topics of study include differential and integral calculus, knot theory, linear algebra, geometric topology, and differential equations.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 31
Rice University Graduation Rate
These are the graduation rates at Rice University:
• Four years: 87%
• Six years: 92%
• Eight years: 93%
Post-Graduation Median Earnings
Graduates of Rice University bring home a median salary of $89,718. This is significantly higher than the overall median salary of $53,727 earned by 2024 graduates of private nonprofit colleges.
Bottom Line
Rice University provides students with a quality education and a rich campus life. While Rice tuition is steep, it’s more affordable than many top-tier schools. And because Rice is a need-blind institution, your ability to pay for the Rice cost won’t be a factor when you apply. Rice is selective, however, so the trickiest part may be getting in!
SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.
Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).
SoFi Bank, N.A. and its lending products are not endorsed by or directly affiliated with any college or university unless otherwise disclosed.
SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.
Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.
External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.
SOISL-Q325-068
Rutgers University Tuition and Fees
Rutgers University Tuition and Fees
(Last Updated – 08/2025)
Total Cost of Attendance
Rutgers University has the distinction of being one of the original colonial colleges, founded in 1766, before the U.S. became a nation. Today, Rutgers, which is the State University of New Jersey, is a leading public research university. Its main campus is located in New Brunswick.
The cost of Rutgers University tuition is $17,929 for New Jersey in-state students and $37,441 for out-of-state students. This is higher than the national averages of $11,260 (in-state) and $29,150 (out-of-state) for tuition at public universities.
Costs for 2024-25
|
Expense |
In-State |
Out-of-State |
|
Tuition & Fees |
$17,929 |
$37,441 |
|
Books & Supplies |
$1,418 |
$1,418 |
|
Room & Board |
$15,714 |
$15,714 |
|
Other Expenses |
$4,458 |
$4,458 |
|
Total Cost of Attendance |
$39,519 |
$59,031 |
Financial Aid
Nearly all students (93%) receive some form of financial aid to help pay for Rutgers tuition and fees. This may come as scholarships, grants, loans, or a combination of them.
Explore financial aid options: New Jersey Student Loan & Scholarships.
Generally, financial aid is monetary assistance awarded to students based on personal need and merit. Students that qualify for financial aid can use it to pay for college costs like tuition, books, and living expenses.
The federal government is the largest provider of student financial aid. However, aid can also be given by state governments, colleges and universities, private companies, and nonprofits. The different types include:
• Scholarships: These can be awarded by schools and other organizations based on students’ academic excellence, athletic achievement, community involvement, job experience, field of study, and financial need.
• Grants: Generally based on financial need, these can come from federal, state, private, and non-profit organizations.
• Work-study: This federal program provides qualifying students with part-time employment to earn money for expenses while in school.
• Federal student loans: This is money borrowed directly from the U.S. Department of Education. It comes with fixed interest rates that are typically lower than private loans.
Colleges, universities, and state agencies use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine financial aid eligibility. The FAFSA can be completed online, but note that state and federal and school deadlines may differ.
You can find other financial aid opportunities at sources such as:
• U.S. Department of Education – Learn more about the grants that are bestowed by the federal government
• College Scholarship Service Profile (CSS) – A global college scholarship application used by select institutions to award financial aid
Recommended: The Differences Between Grants, Scholarships, and Loans
Private Student Loans
At Rutgers, 42% of first-year students take out federal student loans, while just 7% take out private student loans, which average $18,794.
Private loans are funded by private organizations such as banks, online lenders, credit unions, some schools, and state-based or state-affiliated organizations. While federal student loans have interest rates that are regulated by Congress, private lenders follow a different set of regulations, so their qualifications and interest rates can vary widely.
What’s more, private loans have variable or fixed interest rates that may be higher than federal loan interest rates, which are always fixed. Private lenders may (but don’t always) require you to make payments on your loans while you are still in school; with federal student loans, you don’t have to start paying back until after you graduate, leave school, or change your enrollment status to less than half-time.
Private loans don’t have a specific application window and can be applied for on an as-needed basis. However, if you think you may need to take out a private loan, it’s a good idea to submit your FAFSA first to see what federal aid you may qualify for as it generally may have better rates and terms.
If you’ve missed the FAFSA deadline or you’re struggling to pay for school throughout the year, private loans can potentially help you make your payments. Just keep in mind that you will need enough lead time for your loan to process and for your lender to send money to your school.
Recommended: A Complete Guide to Private Student Loans
Projected 4-Year-Degree Price
To attend Rutgers for four years, including tuition and fees, room and board, books, and other fees, the total would be $158,076 for in-state students, based on 2024-25 numbers. In comparison, the total for tuition and fees and room and board of the average public institution is $115,360 for four years, when calculated using 2023-24 figures.
For students from out of state, the four-year degree price at Rutgers is $236,124. This is higher than the national average of $186,920.
Here’s some Student Loan & Scholarship Information for you.
Undergraduate Tuition and Fees
Costs for 2024-25
|
Expense |
In-State |
Out-of-State |
|
Tuition & Fees |
$17,929 |
$37,441 |
|
Room & Board |
$15,714 |
$15,714 |
|
Total |
$33,643 |
$53,155 |
Rutgers in-state tuition for first-year students was $17,929 for the 2024-25 school year, and out-of-state tuition was $37,441. Adding room and board costs of $15,714 to each, the total cost of attendance is $33,643 for in-state students and $53,155 for out-of-state.
Graduate Tuition and Fees
Costs for 2024-25
|
Expense |
In-State |
Out-of-State |
|
Tuition |
$20,616 |
$35,064 |
|
Fees |
$2,625 |
$2,625 |
|
Total |
$23,241 |
$37,689 |
For students who go on to graduate school, the cost for Rutgers University tuition and fees for in-state students in 2024-25 was $23,241 and $37,689 for out-of-state students.
There are many options for graduate loans that can help with these costs.
Cost per Credit Hour
For the 2025-2026 school year, part-time students from New Jersey pay $528 per credit hour, while those from other states pay $1,236 per credit hour.
Campus Housing Expenses
Costs for 2024-25
|
Expense |
On Campus |
Off Campus |
|
Room & Board |
$15,714 |
$1,689/mo* |
|
Other Expenses |
$4,458 |
$4,458 |
*Based on one-bedroom apartment pricing in 2025 near New Brunswick campus; figures from Places4Students.
Rutgers University offers more than 50 housing options across its five New Brunswick campuses. There are traditional residence halls as well as living-learning communities where students with common interests such as business, psychology, or health and medicine can live and study together. Freshmen live on campus. For upperclassmen, there are apartments located within walking distance of the campuses. Rutgers has partnered with the Places4Students website to provide some listings of affordable housing for students.
Rutgers University Acceptance Rate
Fall 2023
|
Number of Applications |
Number Accepted |
Percentage Accepted |
|
43,347 |
28,176 |
68% |
The Rutgers University acceptance rate is 65%. In fall 2023, 28,176 students were accepted. That makes the Rutgers acceptance rate high.
Admission Requirements
Here’s what’s required, and what’s recommended, to apply to Rutgers:
Required:
• High school transcript
• Self-reported Transcript and Academic Record System (STARS) for current high school seniors
• Personal essay
Recommended:
• SAT or ACT scores
• List of extracurricular activities, including volunteer work
The deadline for Early Action is November 1, with a decision given by January 31. The deadline for Regular Decision is December 1, with a decision given by February 28.
SAT and ACT Scores
Rutgers University does not require test scores to be submitted with applications, though students can submit them for course placement or as supplemental information. Here are the average scores for the 25th and 75th percentile.
|
Subject |
25th Percentile |
75th Percentile |
|
SAT Evidence-Based |
630 |
720 |
|
SAT Math |
640 |
760 |
|
ACT Composite |
28 |
33 |
|
ACT English |
27 |
34 |
|
ACT Math |
26 |
33 |
Popular Majors at Rutgers University
Rutgers offers more than 150 different courses of study at its campuses in New Brunswick, Newark, and Camden, as well as online. Here are the most popular majors.
1. Computer Science
Artificial intelligence, robotics, foundations of computer science, scientific computing, and systems are areas of particular focus for Computer Science students. Basic work in this department serves as a foundation for students’ participation in interdisciplinary research, which may incorporate such fields as chemistry, genetics, linguistics, physics, engineering, and manufacturing.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-2024: 684
2. Psychology
Psychology students will study important theories and concepts in psychology and learn how to write, analyze, and apply critical thinking to course material. There’s also an opportunity to gain first-hand experience working in a community agency, school, hospital, or other social service or psychology institution.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-2024: 585
3. Finance
Finance students can elect to focus their studies on corporate finance, financial derivatives, investments, portfolio management, financial markets, or institutions. Graduates with this degree go on to work in jobs with titles like corporate finance officer, bank officer, investment analyst, or credit analyst.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-2024: 468
4. Biology
A practical major that can lead to many careers — ranging from teaching to health professions — biology at Rutgers requires courses in organic chemistry, physics, and genetics, along with 24 elective credits in life sciences. Undergrads have participated in lab research on epigenetic editing, meiosis, the blood-brain barrier, metabolic changes in cell regeneration, and much more.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-2024: 432
5. Registered Nursing
Rutgers offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing and an accelerated program for college graduates seeking a BS. The school also has an RN to BS in Nursing program and, for the ambitious, a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. Starting junior year, students may participate in clinical placements for adult and older adult health, obstetrics, pediatrics, and psychiatric mental health.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-2024: 333
6. Information Technology and Informatics
ITI students master practical computer-based skills with courses such as Social Impacts of Video Gaming, Fundamentals of Data Curation, Cybersecurity, and E-commerce. Many have combined these skills with fields in the humanities and social sciences, minoring in criminology, economics, entrepreneurship, human resource management, psychology, and more.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-2024: 323
7. Management Information Systems
Offered only at the Newark location of Rutgers Business School, this undergraduate program blends IT, systems engineering, data analysis, and management studies to prepare students for both technical and managerial roles. The ability to quantitatively analyze complex business situations can propel graduates into careers in healthcare, consulting, entertainment, banking, insurance, and more.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-2024: 303
8. Supply Chain Management
This major builds on core business courses to delve into the movement and storage of raw materials, work-in-process inventory, and the transportation of finished goods to their point of sale. Elective courses include Negotiations, Retail Marketing, Service Management, Intro to Six Sigma, and Environmental Management/Green Purchasing.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-2024: 300
9. Electrical Engineering
Students of electrical engineering go beyond the basics to gain expertise in power electronics, solar cells, smart grid systems, environmental sensors, and biophotonics, among others. For capstone design projects, teams of seniors use their technical knowledge to create product prototypes, sometimes guided by industry engineers.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-2024: 289
10. Communications
This expansive major offers specializations in public relations, community leadership, technology, and communications centering on wellness and family issues. Full-time students with strong GPAs can earn credits by using their comms skills to tutor other undergrads.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-2024: 280
Graduation Rate
Rutgers students tend to take longer than four years to complete their coursework. Here are the Rutgers graduation rates:
• Four years: 71%
• Six years: 85%
• Eight years: 85%
Post-Graduation Median Earnings
After completing an undergraduate degree at Rutgers, you can expect to earn a median salary of $74,479 per year. This is higher than the national median of $53,727 for this type of college.
Bottom Line
Rutgers offers a quality education, and the Rutgers University acceptance rate is high. While tuition is slightly higher than the national average for public four-year schools, Rutgers is still fairly affordable, and there are plenty of financial aid options for students to explore.
SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.
Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).
SoFi Bank, N.A. and its lending products are not endorsed by or directly affiliated with any college or university unless otherwise disclosed.
SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.
Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.
External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.
SOISL-Q325-069
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Read moreA $15 Allowance for a 5-Year-Old? See How You Stack Up
If you’ve got kids, the whole allowance thing can be tricky.
On the one hand, giving an allowance can be a worthwhile investment in your kids’ understanding and appreciation of money. It can teach them about saving, budgeting, and making choices — and provide a structured way to dole out spending money.
On the other hand, you may be wary of adding more focus on money. Plus, there’s the question of how much to pay and at what age to start.
According to a recent Wells Fargo/Ipsos survey, 43% of parents with children ages 5 to 17 regularly give an allowance, and another 28% give one occasionally. The median (aka most typical) amount per week is $15 for the youngest children and $20 or $25 for older age groups.
Sound like a lot? Remember, every family is different, and only you know what’s right for yours. But if you’ve been on the fence about starting an allowance, or just want a gut check on the one you already give, here are a few things to consider:
1. Choosing an amount: More than a quarter (28%) of parents in the Wells Fargo survey said they’re paying their kids $50 or more a week! But the old rule-of-thumb to give $1 for every year of the child’s age (eg. $5 for a 5-year-old) is a good baseline to consider.
2. Selecting a payment method: With younger kids, physical cash works best since they can see and count it. Later, you can transition to direct bank deposits or digital payments through Venmo, Apple Cash, or a debit card specifically for kids.
3. Deciding whether you’ll require chores. Personal finance influencer Dave Ramsay says you shouldn’t just hand your kids money with no strings attached. But other experts like Ron Lieber, a money columnist for The New York Times, say contributing to the household should be non-negotiable. If moms and dads aren’t paid for mowing the lawn or cooking dinner, then why should kids be paid to walk the dog? This school of thought separates allowance from chores. One is a tool for practicing money skills, the other a way of instilling a strong work ethic.
4. Deciding on raises: When will you give them? At birthdays? Or when the cost of living is noticeably higher? Nearly 3 in 10 parents in the Wells Fargo survey said they bumped their kids’ allowance in the past year due to inflation.
So what? An allowance can be a good way to instill healthy financial habits early. And the teaching-kids-about-money ball is often in parents’ court, considering it’s not yet a standard part of many school curriculums. (Ten states require a personal finance course in high school and another 19 are planning to.) If you go the allowance route, make it count. Here’s some inspiration for age-appropriate money lessons:
• Practice delayed gratification. Have kids save up for a special toy or video game.
• Try budgeting. Set up a jar or envelope system to divide payments into “save, spend, and give” so children learn how to allocate their money toward multiple goals.
• Understand the power of compound interest. Show kids how they can grow their money through vehicles like a high-yield savings or teen brokerage account.
Related Reading
An Age-by-Age Guide to How Much Allowance to Give Your Kids (Parents)
How to Teach Your Kids About Money: 6 Tips (SoFi)
Teaching Kids Financial Skills With Their Allowance (FitMoney)
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Read moreOregon State University Tuition and Fees
Oregon State University Tuition and Fees
(Last Updated – 08/2025)
Oregon State University (OSU) is a well-respected public research university located in Corvallis. Known for its strong programs in engineering, environmental sciences, forestry, and marine biology, Oregon State serves over 32,000 undergraduate students across diverse fields. It is a land-, sea-, and sun-grant institution, which reflects its commitment to research and outreach across multiple areas. With a focus on sustainability and research, OSU plays an important role in regional development and global problem-solving.
Total Cost of Attendance
The Oregon State University tuition in 2024-25 for state residents was $14,400. This is higher than the national average of $11,610 for in-state tuition at public universities. For residents of other states, Oregon State tuition was $38,190, which is above the national average for out-of-state tuition of $30,780.
Tuition, however, is only part of the total cost of attending college. Here’s a look at other expenses students can expect when attending Oregon State.
Costs for 2024-25
|
Expense |
In-State |
Out-of-State |
|
Tuition & Fees |
$14,400 |
$38,190 |
|
Books & Supplies |
$600 |
$600 |
|
Room & Board (on campus) |
$16,386 |
$16,386 |
|
Other Expenses |
$3,492 |
$3,492 |
|
Total Cost of Attendance |
$34,878 |
$58,668 |
Financial Aid
The vast majority of OSU students (92%) use financial aid to help cover the tuition and other costs. This may be student loans, scholarships, or grants, or a combination of these.
Generally, financial aid is monetary assistance awarded to students based on personal need or merit. Students who qualify for financial aid can use it to pay for college costs like tuition, books, and living expenses.
The federal government is the largest provider of student financial aid. However, aid can also be given by state governments, colleges and universities, private companies, and nonprofits. The different types include:
• Scholarships: These can be awarded by schools and other organizations based on students’ academic excellence, athletic achievement, community involvement, job experience, field of study, or financial need.
• Grants: Generally based on financial need, these can come from federal, state, private, or nonprofit organizations.
• Work-study: This federal program provides qualifying students with part-time employment to earn money for expenses while in school.
• Federal student loans: This is money borrowed directly from the U.S. Department of Education. It comes with fixed interest rates that are typically lower than private loans.
Colleges, universities, and state agencies use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine financial aid eligibility. The FAFSA can be completed online, but note that state, federal, and school deadlines may differ.
You can find other financial aid opportunities on databases such as:
• US Department of Education – Search for grants from colleges and universities by state
• College Scholarship Service Profile (CSS) – A global college scholarship application used by select institutions to award financial aid
• SoFi Scholarship Finder – Use our handy tool to streamline your search by award type, location, level of study and more.
Recommended: The Differences Between Grants, Scholarships, and Loans
Private Student Loans
A large share of students (33%) tap student loans to help pay Ohio State’s tuition and other costs: 32% take out federal loans, and 6% get private student loans (with an average amount of $20,904).
Private loans are funded by private organizations such as banks, online lenders, credit unions, some schools, and state-based or -affiliated organizations. While Federal student loans have interest rates that are regulated by Congress, private lenders follow a different set of regulations so their qualifications and interest rates can vary widely.
What’s more, private loans have variable or fixed interest rates that may be higher than federal loan interest rates, which are always fixed. Private lenders may (but don’t always) require you to make payments on your loans while you are still in school, compared to federal student loans, which you don’t have to start paying back until after you graduate, leave school, or change your enrollment status to less than half-time.
Private loans don’t have a specific application window and can be applied for on an as-needed basis. However, if you think you may need to take out a private loan, it’s a good idea to submit your FAFSA first to see what federal aid you may qualify for, since it generally has better rates and terms.
If you’ve missed the FAFSA deadline or you’re struggling to pay for school during the year, private loans can potentially help you make your tuition payments. Just keep in mind that you will need enough lead time for your loan to process and for your lender to send money to your school.
Recommended: Guide to Private Student Loans
Projected 4-Year-Degree Price
The Oregon State University cost of attendance for four years — including tuition and fees, room and board, books, and other expenses — is $139,512 for in-state students (based on 2024-25 numbers). By comparison, the national average at public universities for in-state students is $119,640 for four years.
For out-of-state residents, the four-year cost for attending Oregon State is $234,672. This is higher than the national average of $196,320 for out-of-state cost of attendance.
This student loan and scholarship information may be valuable as you research schools and costs.
Undergraduate Tuition and Fees
Costs for 2024-25
Oregon State’s undergraduate tuition and fees for the 2024-25 academic year were $14,400 for in-state students, a 6.7% increase over 2023-24. The tuition and fees for out-of-state students were $38,190, a 7.1% increase over 2023-24.
Graduate Tuition and Fees
Costs for 2024-25
|
Expense |
In-State |
Out-of-State |
|
Tuition |
$13,716 |
$30,861 |
|
Fees |
$2,490 |
$2,490 |
Tuition and fees for graduate students at Oregon State for 2024-25 averaged $16,206 for in-state students and $33,351 for out-of-state students. This is a good deal for residents: The average cost of graduate school tuition and fees in the U.S. is $22,430 per year.
There are graduate loans available to help with these costs.
Cost per Credit Hour
The cost per credit hour at Oregon State is approximately $400 for Oregon residents and $1,061 for nonresidents.
Campus Housing Expenses
The campus offers 15 residence halls, along with three on-campus apartment complexes (for students who are in their second year and above). All first-year students are required to live on campus, unless they are exempted or living with family.
Costs for 2024-25
• Housing and food expenses (on campus): $16,386
• Housing and food expenses (off campus):$16,386
• Other living expenses: $3,492
Total living expenses for 2024-25 came to an estimated $19,878 for students who lived on or off campus.
Oregon State University Acceptance Rate
Fall 2023
|
Number of Applications |
29,025 |
|
Number Accepted |
22,930 |
|
Percentage Accepted |
79% |
Oregon State University is lightly selective, with an acceptance rate of 79%.
Admission Requirements
Oregon State University has a holistic admissions process that considers the various skills and achievements of each applicant. As part of their review, they look at:
• Your high school grades, courses taken, and rigor of coursework
• Grades in any college or dual-credit courses
• Information provided in your personal statement on the application
• Your responses to application essay prompts
• Experiences and diverse perspectives that you may share with our campus
• Special talents and achievements
Test scores and letters of recommendation are optional but may be submitted.
You can apply to Oregon State using the OSU application or the Common App.
Application deadlines:
• Early action: November 1
• Priority application: February 3 (after this date, admission and scholarships are awarded on a space and funds available basis).
SAT and ACT Scores
Oregon State is test-optional. SAT or ACT scores, if submitted, are considered in context and only as supplemental information. The university does not publish the average SAT or ACT scores of admitted students who did choose to submit their scores.
Popular Majors at Oregon State University
Students at OSU can choose from more than 100 undergraduate degree programs. Here’s a look at 10 of of the most popular areas of study:
1. Computer Science
Computer science (CS) is the study of algorithms and problem solving. CS majors learn how to craft artificial intelligences, analyze medical data, create robots, mine web traffic, combat cybercrime, and much more.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 911
2. Business Administration
The business administration program provides a broad overview of business, including basic skills in accounting and quantitative methods, an understanding of the legal and social environment of business, and a background in management and organizational behavior.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 361
3. Psychology
Psychological majors can earn a B.A. or B.S. degree in Psychology. Some graduates go straight into the workforce in areas such as human resources and human services; others continue their education in psychology or other fields (including law, medicine, business, and public administration).
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 338
4. Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineering majors learn how to design, develop, and improve devices, products, processes, and systems. Students can specialize in certain areas, such as design, mechanics materials, robotics, and wave energy.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 272
5. Kinesiology
Kinesiology majors focus on physical activity and its effect on human health, disease prevention, and quality of life. Graduates are prepared for professional certifications in fitness and conditioning, as well as graduate study in the field.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 223
6. Biology
Biology majors focus on the study of living organisms, including their structure, function, growth, origin, and evolution. Many students use this major as a foundation for graduate study in medicine, veterinary medicine, and other health professions.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 200
7. Human Development and Family Sciences
Students who major in human development and family sciences (HDFS) explore how individuals develop and become resilient over time, especially within the contexts of family, school, work and society. An HDFS degree can lead to professional work or graduate study in fields such as education, HDFS, social work, or public administration.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 169
8. Electrical and Computer Engineering
Students majoring in electrical and computer engineering (ECE) study computer systems, electronic materials, integrated circuits, robotics, and more. The program offers hands-on learning in which students get to apply their knowledge of electrical and computer engineering to create their own robot.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 113
9. Finance
The finance program is designed to prepare students for careers in banking, brokerage, insurance, and other fields. Finance majors learn how to apply the fundamental concepts and tools of finance, evaluate the corporate governance structure of firms, and understand capital markets, among other topics.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 102
10. Marketing
Marketing majors learn both technical marketing skills and leadership training. Career options include sales, advertising, retailing, brand management, market research, purchasing management, and more.
Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 96
Graduation Rate
While many Oregon State students complete their degree in four years, some take longer. Here are the graduation rates for students who began at the school in 2017.
• 4 years: 47%
• 6 years: 71%
Post-Graduation Median Earnings
The average annual salary for Oregon State graduates is $84,000. This is higher than the average projected starting salary for the class of 2025 at the bachelor’s degree level, which is $68,680.
Bottom Line
Oregon State University is known for its quality education and strong programs in a range of fields. The school’s research facilities and connections with various industries also provide opportunities for students to gain hands-on experiences and work on real-world projects.
While tuition runs somewhat higher than the national average for public universities, those who need help covering the OSU cost of attendance may qualify for financial assistance in the form of grants, scholarships, and federal student loans.
If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.
Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.
SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.
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