By Susan Guillory

(Last Updated – 06/2025)

Located in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, Boston College was founded in 1863. It’s a private Catholic Jesuit research university that currently has more than 15,000 students enrolled. It is well-respected for its liberal arts programs. In fact, U.S. News & World Report ranks it #37 among national universities, #6 in Best Undergraduate Teaching, and #7 in both Finance and Service Learning.

Total Cost of Attendance

Boston College cost of attendance for the 2024-25 school year was $93,168. This is considerably higher than the average for four-year private institutions in the U.S. of $60,420 per year.

Financial Aid

Just over half of the students (55%) use some form of financial aid to help with Boston College tuition, whether by taking out student loans or receiving grants or scholarships. Boston College is need-blind, which means your ability to pay for college will not impact your application.

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

Recommended: The Differences Between Grants, Scholarships, and Loans

Private Student Loans

There are two types of student loans: federal and private. At Boston College, 32% of students take out federal student loans. Boston College does not publish data about how many students take out private student loans to protect privacy.

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

To attend Boston College for four years, including tuition and fees, books, and room and board, the cost would be $372,672. According to CollegeData.com, it costs about $241,680 on average for four years at a private four-year institution. As you see, Boston College costs about 50% more than the national average for a private education.

Here’s some Massachusetts Student Loan & Scholarship Information for you.

Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

Boston College tuition and fees, plus books and supplies, was $71,952 in 2024-25 vs. the national average of $41,540.

Graduate Tuition and Fees

Graduate students at Boston College paid, on average, $37,404 in 2024-25, including fees. This is significantly higher than the average cost for tuition for graduate school at a private institution in the United States, which is $21,730. There are graduate loans available to help with these costs.

Cost per Credit Hour

Boston College lists its cost per additional credit at $2,406 per credit for extra courses.

Campus Housing Expenses

First-year students at Boston College are required to live on-campus in traditional housing. As sophomores, students can live in traditional rooms or apartment-style housing and choose their roommates. Juniors may live in an off-campus apartment, and seniors have their choice of housing across many options.

Boston College Acceptance Rate

The BC acceptance rate of 16% means that the school can be challenging to get into. It’s considered highly selective, and even well-qualified candidates may have difficulty getting in. Read on to find out what’s required.

Admission Requirements

Here’s what’s needed to apply at Boston College.

Required:

•  High school transcript

•  The School Report and Counselor Recommendation Form

•  Teacher evaluations

•  Personal statement/writing supplement

Recommended:

•  SAT or ACT scores

The deadline for Early Decision I is November 1, with a decision given by December 15. The deadline for Early Decision II is January 2 for the upcoming season, with a decision by February 15. The deadline for Regular Decision is also January 2, and applicants will be given a decision by April 1. You can apply to Boston College here .

SAT and ACT Scores

Submitting ACT or SAT test scores isn’t required for applicants for the current application cycle. However, since they are recommended, here are the test scores at the 25th and 75th percentile for Fall 2023.

Popular Majors at Boston College

Boston College offers more than 100 majors, concentrations, and minors. These are the most popular areas of study.

1. Economics

Economics students often specialize in quantitative economics, learning about economic growth, unemployment, and inflation, different market structures, and macroeconomic models they can use to analyze the national economy. They also develop solid oral and written communication skills.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 274

2. Biology

Biology students get a solid foundation in physics, chemistry, and mathematics, and can choose from a concentration including bioinformatics, cell biology and development, general biology, genetics, microbiology, or physiology and organismal biology.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 219

3. Finance

Finance students at the Carroll School of Management will get a solid foundation in finance, as well as learn about accounting, corporate finance, investments, cryptocurrency, financial policy, and more. Students also have the opportunity to study abroad.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 207

4. Communication

A communication degree prepares students for careers in law, business, communication, and more. Courses include public speaking, rhetorical tradition, media ethics, and nonverbal communication.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 144

5. Computer Science

Students in this department are well-prepared for careers in computing, data mining, programming, and more. Coursework includes subjects like robotics, programming, computer security, scientific computation, and database systems.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 136

6. Psychology

The psychology major teaches students to examine human behavior by looking at history, social sciences, cognitive psychology, and civil society influences. Coursework can include such topics as theology, quantitative reasoning, and cultural diversity.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 130

7. Nursing

Nursing students at Boston College get hands-on experience in hospitals, clinics, and community agencies. They also have the opportunity to study abroad to get more experience in an international setting.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 115

8. Management Sciences

Students in this concentration study business analytics and operations management, preparing them for a career in business or pursuing a graduate degree.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 102

9. Political Science

Students in this program can choose a subfield of political science, including: American politics, comparative politics, international politics, or political theory before going on to successful careers in politics, public administration, international service, law, business, or journalism.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 95

10. Neuroscience

The faculty guides students to dive into each of these areas from multiple perspectives: from animal models and computational models to systems and cognitive neuroscience, preparing them for a career in the sciences or further study.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 82

Graduation Rate

Here is the graduation rate for students who started their studies at Boston College in 2017:

•  4 years: 88%

•  6 years: 91%

Post-Graduation Median Earnings

After graduating, Boston College students earned an average salary of $103,937, which is much higher than the national average for graduates of $68,516.

By Kelly Boyer Sagert

(Last Updated – 06/2025)

Arizona State University is the top-rated institution in innovation and global impact in research, outreach, and stewardship, according to U.S. News & World Report. Plus, ASU was one of the first universities globally to achieve carbon neutrality. With a main campus on 660 acres in Tempe, Arizona (eight miles from Phoenix), this public university is currently home to more than 65,000 undergrad students.

Total Cost of Attendance

ASU’s cost of attendance is $34,175 for in-state students and $55,091 for out-of-state students as of the most recent school year data. In both cases, students would be living on campus. Compare this with current national averages of $28,840 for in-state public university students and $46,730 for out-of-state students, and you’ll see that an ASU education is more expensive than the norm.

Financial Aid

The majority of the students who are accepted (93%) receive some form of financial aid to help with the Arizona State University cost, which may include scholarships, grants, and/or student loans.

ASU provides both academic and need-based scholarships for Arizona residents, in an effort to make college education more affordable.

Explore financial aid options: Arizona Student Loans & Scholarships.

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

•  Scholarship Search Tool

Recommended: The Differences Between Grants, Scholarships, and Loans

Private Student Loans

While most ASU students who take out student loans (29%) take out federal loans to help cover the Arizona State University cost, there are also students who rely on private student loans (4%). On average, ASU students take out $25,944 in private student loans per year.

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 total cost for four years of ASU tuition, room and board, and books and supplies for in-state students is $136,700, based on the 2024-25 school year. This is higher than the national average of $115,360.

For out-of-state students, that number is $220,364, which is also higher than the national average of $186,920 for four years.

Here’s some Student Loan & Scholarship Information for you.

Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

ASU in-state tuition and fees, plus books and supplies, for the 2024-25 academic year totaled $13,543. Compared to the average annual cost for the same at a public university of $11,260, this is higher.

For ASU out-of-state tuition and fees, plus books and supplies, the total was $34,459. The national average cost for out-of-state tuition, fees, and room and board totaled $29,150. Again, an ASU education will cost more than the norm.

Graduate Tuition and Fees

ASU tuition and fees per year for graduate school was $12,562 for Arizona residents vs. the national in-state average of $10,320. The cost is $27,521 for out-of-state students for the 2024-25 school year vs. $21,730, which is the average cost of graduate school.

There are many options for graduate loans that can help with these costs.

Cost per Credit Hour

While the ASU tuition costs we’ve covered so far are for full-time students, excess credit may be billed at $164 to $270 per credit hour in the most recent academic year. There are caps on how many extra credit hours students may take.

Campus Housing Expenses

ASU offers residential college communities, so you can live among other students who share your major, as well as traditional dorms. Freshmen are required to live on campus. Upperclassmen can opt to live off campus .

Arizona State University (ASU) Acceptance Rate

Admission Requirements

ASU has certain requirements for applicants. Some of these are mandatory, while others are recommended.

Required:

•  High school transcript

•  Possibly proof of English proficiency

Considered, but not required:

•  Secondary school rank and GPA

•  SAT/ACT scores

The deadline for Priority Admission at ASU is November 1. The Regular Admission deadline is January 15.

SAT and ACT Scores

Standardized test scores are optional for Arizona State University. Here are the average scores for the 25th and 75th percentile for those applying to ASU.

Popular Majors at Arizona State University

When it comes to degree programs, ASU has a lot to offer. In fact, there are hundreds of programs available to choose from. Here are some of the most popular programs.

1. Business

By far, the most popular degree program at ASU is business. Undergraduate students have the opportunity to dive into different aspects of business, from data analytics to entrepreneurship. If they choose, they can go on to study in the Master of Global Management degree program.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 3,290

2. Engineering

ASU offers both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineering, including aerospace, biomedical, chemical, civil, computer systems, and electrical engineering.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 1,376

3. Health Professions

There are many programs under the Health department at ASU, including Applied Science, the Business of Health Care, Global Health, Health Care Administration and Policy, Integrative Health, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 1,048

4. Psychology

Not only do psychology students get the opportunity to learn critical thinking, reasoning, quantitative research, and scientific writing in their coursework, but they also have the opportunity to work in research labs.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 972

5. Biology

ASU offers a B.S. degree in Biology, with students able to specialize in coursework areas like biomedical sciences, conservation biology and ecology, or genetics, cell and developmental biology.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 909

6. Social Sciences

Students interested in Social Sciences can pursue degrees in Anthropology, African and African American Studies, Integrative Social Sciences, Religious Studies, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 734

7. Computer Science

Computer Science students have the opportunity to study such topics as cybersecurity, applied computing, biomedical informatics, applied mathematics, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 708

8. Education

Education majors can focus on early childhood, special education, multilingual learners, STEM, secondary education, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 703

9. Visual & Performing Arts

Creative types may choose to major in Art (including Ceramics, Art Studies, Art History, Printmaking, Sculpture, and more), or in Performing Arts (including Jazz, Music Theater, Voice, Performance and Movement, and more).

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 677

10. Communication

ASU offers bachelor’s degrees in Communication with an emphasis on journalism, sports communication, technical communication, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 671

Graduation Rate

Graduation rates are as follows for students who started their studies in Fall 2017:

•  4 years: 55%

•  6 years: 68%

Post-Graduation Median Earnings

After graduating from ASU with a bachelor’s degree, students earn on average $62,668 per year. This is lower than the national average of $68,516.

By Jennifer Calonia

(Last Updated – 06/2025)

Texas Southern University is among the largest historically Black universities in the nation, with more than 8,400 students enrolled each year. This public university offers a wide variety of undergraduate programs, including Biological Sciences, Engineering, Health Administration, and more.

Total Cost of Attendance

For the 2024-25 academic year, costs for Texas Southern University were $29,655 for in-state students. This is slightly above the national average of $28,840 for in-state public universities. For students from out of state, the cost of attendance was $41,955, which is less than the national average of $46,730.

Costs for 2024-2025

Financial Aid

Nearly all Texas Southern University students have some form of financial aid. For example, in the 2022-23 year, 98% of undergraduates received some kind of aid. This includes federal and state grants, scholarships, and loans.

Explore financial aid options: Texas Student Loan & Scholarships.

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, and 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

•  Scholarship Search Tool

Recommended: The Differences Between Grants, Scholarships, and Loans

Private Student Loans

Of the students who use financial aid to cover Texas Southern University tuition, 70% have federal student loans. And 2% of Texas Southern undergraduates have private student loans that average $14,881.

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 projected cost of a four-year in-state degree at Texas Southern University is $118,620, including tuition, books and supplies, room and board, and other expenses. This is slightly higher than the national average of $115,360. The four-year cost for out-of-state students would be $167,820. This is less than the national average of $186,920.

Here’s some Student Loan & Scholarship Information for you.

Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

For the 2024-25 academic year, the undergraduate cost for Texas Southern University tuition, fees, and books totaled $10,827 for in-state students. Students who live out of state paid $23,127. Compare this to the national averages of $11,260 for in-state students and $29,150 for out-of-state, and you will see that TSU tuition is more affordable than a typical school.

Graduate Tuition and Fees

The cost of Texas Southern University tuition and fees for graduate students were $8,328 for Texas residents, and $15,488 for non-residents. Fees were $1,470 for both. For comparison, the average national cost of a Master’s degree is $21,730, according to recent data, meaning TSU offers good value.

There are many options for graduate loans that can help with these costs.

Cost per Credit Hour

For the most recently published rates, the cost per credit hour at Texas Southern University for residents was $197 to $239. The cost for non-residents was $470 per credit hour.

Campus Housing Expenses

All freshmen at TSU Houston are required to live on campus during their first year. There are double-occupancy dormitory-style rooms, and the four freshmen towers are gender-specific. Additionally, freshmen must purchase a meal plan while residing on campus.

Texas Southern University Acceptance Rate

The TSU acceptance rate is 93%, so applicants have a very good chance of being accepted.

TSU Admission Requirements

To apply to Texas Southern, students need to submit the following:

Required:

•  High school GPA

•  High school transcript

•  Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), if applicable

Recommended:

•  College-preparatory program

•  Letter of recommendation

•  Formal demonstration of competencies

To apply as an undergraduate to TSU, these are the general freshman application deadlines:

•  Fall term – May 31

•  Spring term – December 1

SAT and ACT Scores

Although Texas Southern University does not typically require standardized test scores, students are welcome to submit their SAT/ACT test scores. Submitted scores will be considered. (Some students whose high school curriculum doesn’t adhere TSU’s guidelines may be required to submit scores.) For reference, here are previous scores submitted to TSU in Fall 2023.

Popular Majors at Texas Southern University

TSU undergraduate students can choose from among 100+ different bachelor’s degree programs. These are the most popular majors at Texas Southern University.

1. Biology/Biological Sciences

The university offers General Biology Services as a comprehensive or pre-health professional option. The degree provides a foundation of biological courses, like Cell Biology, Microbiology, Conservation Biology, and Genetics.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 79

2. Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration

In the Administration of Justice program, criminal justice students take courses in Legal Aspects of Law Enforcement and Introduction to Corrections, among many others.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 68

3. General Studies

This program has a broad curriculum that helps students reach their academic and future career goals by providing a solid foundation across various topics. Courses include English, math, sciences, history, political science, and creative arts.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 61

4. Business Administration and Management

Those pursuing this business major take courses such as Management Principles, Entrepreneurship, and more. These skills are applicable to an array of career options.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 59

5. Psychology

This program provides a solid foundation in psychology and teaches psychology research methods, including research design, data analysis, and interpretation, and how to apply them.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 55

6. Radio and Television

Courses like Media and Society, Computer Applications in Communications, and Media Management & Marketing are included in TSU’s Radio and Television program. Through the curriculum, students receive hands-on training to prepare them for careers in media communications.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 37

7. Health/ Health Care Administration/ Management

By taking classes such as Health Policy, Healthcare Finance, and Health Care Organizations, students are prepared for a career in the healthcare field, often with an emphasis on management.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 37

8. Social Work

The curriculum for this field of study includes courses on Social Legislation, Violence and Abuse in Families, and Social Welfare Policy. Students may opt for a career in child services or community social work.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 32

9. Political Science

Students learn about government and public affairs (including such topics as homeland security). This program, which offers three different tracks, prepares students for a career in public service or for continuing their studies.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 30

10. Health and Wellness

Those majoring in Health and Wellness study Human Sexuality, Mental Health, and Diseases & Consumer Health, among many other classes. Graduates can go on to careers in athletic training and sports management, as well as other occupations.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 27

Graduation Rate

These are the graduation rates at Texas Southern University for those who started their education in Fall 2017:

•  4 years: 6%

•  6 years: 20%

Post-Graduation Median Earnings

TSU graduates earn a median annual salary of $38,924, according to the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard data. This is below the national average of $68,516 for college graduates.

By Susan Guillory

(Last Updated – 06/2025)

Barnard College, located in New York City, is a private liberal arts college for women. It’s known for being among the most selective schools in the country. Located on four acres adjacent to Columbia University, it enrolls slightly more than 3,000 students per year. It prides itself on the quality of its education, its single-sex heritage and focus, its urban location, and the fact that 59% of students are people of color.

Total Cost of Attendance

Barnard’s cost of attendance for the 2024-25 school year was $94,582. Compared to the national average of $60,420 at private schools, this is quite a bit higher: more than 50%, in fact.

Financial Aid

At Barnard, almost two-thirds (62%) of students receive one or more types of financial aid, including student loans, grants, and scholarships.

Barnard is need-blind, meaning that the school does not consider a student’s ability to pay for education during the application process.

Explore financial aid options: New York Student Loans & Scholarships.

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, and 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

•  Scholarship Search Tool

Recommended: The Differences Between Grants, Scholarships, and Loans

Private Student Loans

Of the students who use financial aid to help with the Barnard tuition, 57% have federal loans and 8% take out private student loans averaging $22,861.

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

To attend Barnard College for four years, the total cost of tuition, fees, room, board, and other expenses, based on 2024-25 numbers, would total $378,328. This is significantly higher than the average four-year cost at a private university of $241,680.

Here’s some Student Loan & Scholarship Information for you.

Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

The total cost for undergraduate Barnard tuition and fees, plus books and supplies, in 2024-25 was $71,038. Compare this to the national average of $41,540.

Graduate Tuition and Fees

Barnard, as a college, does not offer graduate degrees, though it does align with universities, such as Columbia and University of Delaware, to inform students of appropriate post-grad programs. Barnard alumnae may use graduate loans to help with the cost of attendance if they choose to pursue additional levels of education.

By Susan Guillory

(Last Updated – 06/2025)

Established in 1873, Texas Christian University (TCU) frequently makes the lists for the top universities in the nation. This private institution, located in Fort Worth, prides itself on the fact that 98% of professors teach undergraduates. Its enrollment for fall 2024 was 12,938. Worth noting: TCU has a long-standing affiliation with the Christian church, and most undergrads identify as Christian, but it offers a welcoming environment for students of all faiths. Currently, over 60 religious groups are represented on campus.

Total Cost of Attendance

Here’s important information about the cost of a TCU education:

Financial Aid

At Texas Christian University, the majority of students (87%) use some form of financial aid to help with TCU tuition. This includes student loans, grants, and scholarships. TCU is need-blind, which means your ability to pay for college isn’t considered with your application.

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, and 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

Recommended: The Differences Between Grants, Scholarships, and Loans

Private Student Loans

There are both private and federal student loans available to TCU students: 25% take out federal loans and 9% take out private loans. The average private student loan is $33,126.

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 cost to attend TCU for four years (based on 2024-25 numbers) would be $334,648. This is considerably higher than the average of $241,680 for four years of school at a U.S. private university, according to CollegeData.com .

Here’s some Texas Student Loan & Scholarship Information for you.

Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

In 2024-25, the cost for tuition, fees, and books was $62,540, vs. the national average of $41,540.

Graduate Tuition and Fees

For graduate students, TCU tuition and fees total $38,658 in 2024-25. The average cost for tuition for graduate school at a private institution in the United States is much lower, at $21,730 per year. There are graduate loans available to help with these costs.

Cost per Credit Hour

Some students opt to attend Texas Christian University part-time. In this case, they pay TCU tuition on a per-credit-hour basis of $2,210 on average. You may also be eligible to take out student loans as a part-time student.

Campus Housing Expenses

*Starting studio pricing based on available apartments on an off-campus housing website in 2025.

Students under the age of 21 who don’t live with family are required to live on campus at TCU. There are 20 residence houses, some for freshmen, some for upperclassmen, and some mixed residences.

Students who choose to live off-campus have many options near the university, including houses, duplexes, and apartments.

Texas Christian University Acceptance Rate

The TCU acceptance rate of 43% means that the university accepts fewer than half of the students who apply.

Admission Requirements

Here’s what’s required and recommended with your application to TCU:

Required:

•  High school transcript

•  Essay

•  Counselor and teacher recommendation/evaluation

Recommended:

•  SAT or ACT scores

November 1 is the deadline for Early Action, Early Decision, and Spring Admission. The deadline for Regular Decision and Early Decision II is February 1. You can apply to TCU here .

SAT and ACT Scores

Applicants are currently not required to submit SAT or ACT scores. As of Fall 2023, 20% submitted their SAT results, and 15% submitted their ACT scores. Here are the scores at the 25th and 75th percentile at TCU:

Popular Majors at Texas Christian University

TCU offers 117 majors, including these 10 most popular programs.

1. Finance

Finance students gain valuable skills in finance, economics, and accounting, and learn about investments, budgets, and financial strategies.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 196

2. Nursing

TCU offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing that prepares students for careers in different medical and health care settings. They will learn critical thinking and clinical reasoning while getting hands-on experience in practice labs. Coursework includes anatomy, physiology, and pharmacotherapeutics.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 169

3. Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication

Students get a solid foundation in advertising and public relations while learning how to research and communicate on platforms including print, broadcast, online, and mobile. Students also have the opportunity to intern in the field.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 140

4. Marketing

After taking courses in marketing strategy, digital and social media, design, product innovation and brand management, and customer insights, students are well-prepared for a variety of careers in business and marketing.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 132

5. Psychology

Many psychology students go on to further their education after earning their undergraduate degrees. In this program, students learn about human neuropsychology, psychopharmacology, cognitive development, abnormal psychology, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 114

6. Economics

Economics students are well-versed in a wide range of local and global economic issues and strategies and learn about the history of economic thought, regional and urban economics, Asian economics, economic geography, and health economics.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 107

7. Speech Communication and Rhetoric

Students in this program learn to develop spoken and written communication skills through courses in gender and communication, listening, family communication, power and influence in interpersonal communication, intercultural communication, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 102

8. Biology

The biology department offers a rigorous education and one that can help students get into medical school. In fact, TCU biology majors have twice the acceptance rate for medical school than the national average. Coursework includes ecology, genetics, immunology, and virology.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 83

9. Accounting

After studying financial reporting, audit and assurance, risk and controls, and cost analysis and control, accounting students are prepared to start careers in accounting or business or continue their education at the master’s level.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 78

10. Political Science

Political science majors learn how governments function in different states, countries, and regions. Coursework includes campaigns and elections, media and politics, Chinese foreign policy, constitutional law, global justice, and Mideast politics.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 75

Learn more about the majors at TCU here .

Graduation Rate

Here are the graduation rates for students who started their studies at Texas Christian University in 2017:

•  4 years: 74%

•  6 years: 85%

Post-Graduation Median Earnings

Earnings for students who graduate from TCU are, on average, $68,424 per year. This is very close to the national average for graduates of four-year institutions, which is $68,516 per year.