By Susan Guillory

(Last Updated – 06/2025)

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC Chapel Hill) is a top-ranked public research university known for its academic excellence, rich history, and vibrant campus life. Founded in 1789 as the first public university in the U.S., UNC Chapel Hill offers 70+ bachelor’s degree programs and highly regarded graduate schools, including business, law, and medicine. Often referred to as a “public Ivy,” UNC Chapel Hill provides students with a dynamic learning environment, top-notch professors, and extensive research opportunities.

Total Cost of Attendance

Here’s what it costs to attend UNC Chapel Hill.

Financial Aid

To help cover UNC tuition and other fees, 58% of students use some form of financial aid, which can include student loans, scholarships, or grants.

UNC Chapel Hill is need-blind, which means your ability (or lack thereof) to pay for your tuition will not be a factor in acceptance.

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:

•  U.S. 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

When it comes to student loans, 18% of students take out federal loans and 10% take out private loans to help with UNC Chapel Hill tuition. The average private student loan is $7,725.

Private college 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 for attending UNC for four years would be, based on 2024-25 numbers, $108,080 for students who live in North Carolina. This is lower than the average total four-year cost of attending a public university in the U.S. for in-state students, which is $115,360.

The projected four-year degree price at UNC for out-of-state students is $236,916. This is considerably higher than the average cost of a four-year degree at a public university for an out-of-state student, which is $186,920.

Recommended: North Carolina Student Loan & Scholarship Information

Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

Costs for 2024-25

•   Tuition and fees for in-state students: $8,994

    Books were $1,290 for a total of $10,284

•   Tuition and fees for out-of-state students: $41,203

    Books were $1,290 for a total of $42,493

Find out about student loan and scholarship information.

Graduate Tuition and Fees

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has some well-respected graduate programs. For the 2023-24 academic year, UNC tuition and fees for graduate school was $12,751 for in-state students and $31,408 for out-of-state students. There are graduate loans available to help with these costs.

Cost per Credit Hour

The UNC cost per credit hour is $292.46 for in-state students and $1,634.50 for out-of-state students (note: these costs do not include student fees).

Campus Housing Expenses

Incoming freshmen are required to live on campus in one of the 14 residential communities spread across the campus.

Once you complete your first year on campus, there are many options off-campus near the school. You can rent a studio or one-bedroom apartment on your own or live with roommates in an apartment, duplex, or house. This resource will help you explore the off-campus options.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Acceptance Rate

With the UNC Chapel Hill acceptance rate at 19%, the school can be challenging to get into.

Admission Requirements

To apply to UNC you’ll need to fill out the Common Application. You’ll also need to submit a letter of recommendation and an official transcript and school report. UNC is generally test-optional. However, starting in 2025-26, students with a weighted high school GPA greater than or equal to 2.50 and less than 2.80 are required to submit a standardized test score (ACT or SAT).

The deadline for Early Action is October 15, with a decision given by January 31. The deadline for Regular Decision is January 15, with a decision by March 31. You can apply here .

SAT and ACT Scores

For the cohort of students who enrolled in Fall 2023, 29% opted to submit SAT scores and 34% opted to submit ACT scores. Here’s a look at those scores. (Note: The 25th percentile means that 25% of students scored at or below these scores; 75th percentile means 25% of students scored above these scores.)

Popular Majors at UNC – Chapel Hill

UNC Chapel Hill offers more than 80 majors and minors. Here are some of the most popular majors at UNC.

1. Biology

Biology is the study of life, from the molecule and cell to the organism and ecosystem. UNC offers both a Bachelor’s of Arts (BA) and a Bachelor’s of Science (BS) degree in biology. This BS program is designed for students who intend to continue graduate study in biological or health sciences.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 499

2. Interdisciplinary Studies

The interdisciplinary studies program is for students who are self-disciplined and crave to learn outside of the classroom. Students can create their studies around a theme, problem, or interest. Behavioral science is a key topic explored, and it’s very popular with University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill students.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 415

3. Business Administration

After completing a Bachelor of Arts or Science in business administration, students will be able to analyze and make decisions about business, utilize communication skills, and work with team members.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 384

4. Computer Science

Computer science students will dive deep into concepts related to computer science as well as sharpen their critical thinking skills. They will also have the opportunity to learn from real-world experience in the field.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 340

5. Communications

Communications majors will learn communication theories and how to apply them to different professions. They will also learn how to analyze information and how it is communicated through different media forms.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 339

6. Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness

UNC Chapel Hill offers three degrees in exercise and sport science with these emphases: fitness professional, sport administration, and general.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 287

7. Political Science

In this program, students learn about politics in the West and around the world, and gain the skills necessary to evaluate and analyze political theories.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 223

8. Economics

UNC offers both a BA and BS in economics. Students will explore the principles and problems of modern economic life to prepare for either private employment, government employment, or graduate programs in economics, business administration, international studies, law, public policy, and other fields.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 221

9. Nursing

Through clinical experiences, students in this program develop the knowledge and skills needed to practice nursing in contemporary society.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 199

10. Mathematics

A BA or BS in mathematics at UNC will teach you core mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills, and prepare you for a master’s degree or for a profession in diverse math-related fields.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 128

Learn more about the fields of study you can major in at UNC here .

Graduation Rate

Here is the graduation rate for students who started attending UNC Chapel Hill in 2017:

•  4 years: 86%

•  6 years: 92%

Post-Graduation Median Earnings

Graduates from UNC Chapel Hill earn a median annual salary of $72,200, which is more than the median national figure of $68,516.

By Kelly Boyer Sagert

(Last Updated – 06/2025)

Located in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, the University of Minnesota (UMN) is a public research university that has been educating students for more than 150 years. UMN’s schools of management, law, and education rank highly. The university’s faculty members have invented things like the pacemaker, cancer therapies, and biodegradable plastics.

Total Cost of Attendance

University of Minnesota tuition for state residents was $17,214 in 2024-25, and $38,362 for out-of-state students. This is more than the national average of $11,260 for in-state tuition at public universities, and $29,150 for out-of-state students.

Financial Aid

At UMN, 81% of students receive one or more forms of financial aid, including scholarships, loans, and grants.

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

Generally, financial aid is monetary assistance awarded to students based on personal need and 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 non-profit organizations, offering grants for student loans to help reduce education costs.

•  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:

•  U.S. 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 40% of University of Minnesota students take out federal student loans, 14% take out private loans averaging $15,893.

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 University of Minnesota’s four-year cost for state residents would be $137,680, based on 2024-25 numbers. For out-of-state students, the University of Minnesota cost for four years would be $222,272.

Compare these costs to the national average cost of attendance of $115,360 for in-state college students and $186,920 for out-of-state attendees. University of Minnesota is, as you see, considerably more expensive than the national norm.

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

Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

For in-state students, the combination of UMN tuition and fees plus book costs was $18,214 in 2024-25. For out-of-state students, it was $39,362.

Graduate Tuition and Fees

University of Minnesota tuition for graduate school, including fees, was $22,017 for in-state students, and $33,249 for out-of-state students.

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

Cost per Credit Hour

The University of Minnesota lists their costs per credit. The charge for residents is $498.40, and $710.95 for nonresidents.

Campus Housing Expenses

There are a dozen diverse residence halls and student apartments on campus for students to choose from. You can also opt for a Living Learning community, where you live with students who have the same interests. Freshmen aren’t required to live on campus, but 80% of them do. For those who want to live off-campus, there are many apartments nearby. You can explore UMN’s off-campus housing options .

University Of Minnesota Acceptance Rate

The University of Minnesota’s acceptance rate is 77%. In Fall 2023, 30,705 students were accepted to the university.

Admission Requirements

Here are the required and recommended materials if you’re considering applying to UMN.

Required:

•  Secondary-school record

Not required but considered:

•  Recommendations

•  Personal statement

•  SAT or ACT scores

The deadline for Early Action is November 1, with a decision given by January 31. The deadline for Early Action II is December 1, with a decision given by February 15. The Regular deadline is January 1, with a decision given by March 31.

SAT and ACT Scores

Though test scores currently aren’t required with your application, here’s a look at the average standardized test scores at UMN.

Popular Majors at the University of Minnesota

From Accounting to Youth Studies, UMN has almost every major you can think of. Here are the most popular undergrad programs.

1. Computer Science

Computer Science is the top major at UMN. Students learn and develop programming languages and operating systems, design computer software and hardware, apply computational techniques to other sciences, and explore artificial intelligence and robotics.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 604

2. Psychology

UMN offers both a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Students take courses like Biological and Quantitative Psychology, Neuroscience, Cognitive Science, Computer Science, Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 495

3. Biology

Courses for biology students include Nature of Life; Foundations of Biology for Biological Sciences Majors; Ecosystem Ecology; Sex, Evolution, and Behavior: Examining Human Evolutionary Biology; and Fungi – A Kingdom of Their Own.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 331

4. Finance

After getting a foundation in courses like Business Statistics, Finance Fundamentals, Business Analytics, and Options & Derivatives, Finance majors can go on to work as financial analysts, financial consultants, commercial bankers, financial planners, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 296

5. Marketing

After starting with a base in business and economics, Marketing majors dive into topics like Marketing Foundations, Marketing Research, Business Communication, Buyer Behavior, and Marketing Analysis.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24:211

6. Education

One popular program prepares students to become elementary school teachers. It includes Elementary Teaching, Reading Foundations, and Special Education Foundations, as well as 1,200 classroom hours.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 201

7. Mechanical Engineering

While all Mechanical Engineering students take coursework in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Engineering Science, and Applied Engineering, they have the option to further their studies in fields like System Design and Control, Manufacturing Engineering, Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer, Power and Propulsion, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 187

8. Political Science

Political Science majors can personalize their studies to suit their interests. They can focus on political theory, international relations, comparative government and policy, and more. They also have the opportunity to participate in internships and political/social justice student groups.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 176

9. Kinesiology

UMN has a highly regarded kinesiology department, according to the National Academy of Kinesiology. Students get the opportunity to work in some of the 14 labs and centers on campus.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 163

10. Mathematics

UMN offers both a BS and a BA in Mathematics. Students can select a specialization, including Actuarial Mathematics, Mathematical Biology (Genomics or Physiology), Computer Applications, or Mathematics Education.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 143

Graduation Rate

Here are the graduation rates at the University of Minnesota based on the class that entered in Fall 2017.

•  4 years: 74%

•  6 years: 85%

Post-Graduation Median Earnings

After completing their studies at UMN, graduates can expect to earn an average of $69,000, which is just a tiny bit higher than the U.S. average for graduates of $68,516.

By Susan Guillory

(Last Updated – 06/2025)

Founded in 1925, the University of Miami is a well-respected private research institution. Currently, more than 12,000 undergraduates are enrolled at the school’s picturesque campus, which is studded with palm trees, as you might expect to see in Florida. Here’s more about the cost of attending and how to afford it.

Total Cost of Attendance

University of Miami tuition for 2024-53 is $62,616. This is significantly above the national average for four-year private universities of $41,540.

Financial Aid

Most students don’t pay for UMiami tuition out of pocket, but instead take out financial aid in the form of student loans, grants, or scholarships. In fact, 81% receive financial aid of some kind.

Generally, financial aid is monetary assistance awarded to students based on personal need and 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, or 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:

•  U.S. 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: private and federal. At the University of Miami, 29% of students take out federal loans and 7% take out private loans. The average private student loan amount is $29,813.

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 University of Miami cost for four years, based on 2024-25 estimates, would be $375,568. In contrast, the average cost for tuition and room and board for four years at a private college is $241,680. University of Miami is considerably higher than the national average cost of a 4-year education.

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

Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

In 2024-25, students paid $63,882 for tuition, fees and books at University of Miami.

Graduate Tuition and Fees

The university offers highly regarded graduate programs, too. University of Miami average tuition for grad school students was $45,540 in 2022-23, plus $1,330 in fees, totaling $46,870. The national average for grad school was much lower, at $21,730 per year for tuition and fees. There is the option to apply for graduate loans available to help with these costs.

Cost per Credit Hour

The University of Miami tuition covered above is for a course load of 12 to 20 credits. For students wishing to attend part-time, the cost is $2,644 per credit hour.

Campus Housing Expenses

Non-local freshmen are required to live on campus at the University of Miami. The school offers four residential colleges and two apartment properties on campus.

For upperclassmen who prefer to live off campus, there are a variety of affordable options. Living with roommates can bring your costs down. This resource can help you find off-campus housing opportunities.

University of Miami Acceptance Rate

Admission Requirements

Here’s what’s required with your application to the University of Miami.

Required:

•  High school transcript and GPA

•  Letter of recommendation

•  Personal statement

Recommended:

•  SAT or ACT scores

For Fall 2026, the deadline for Early Decision I is November 1, with a decision given by mid December. The deadline for Early Action is also November 1, with a decision by late January. The deadline for Early Decision II is January 5 with a decision by late February. The deadline for Regular Decision is January 5 with a decision by April 1. You can apply here .

SAT and ACT Scores

Though the University of Miami does not currently require test scores to be submitted with applications, it can be helpful to see the average scores that students have earned. Here are the 25th and 75th percentile test results from Fall 2023.

Popular Majors at the University of Miami

At the University of Miami, there are more than 180 majors and programs to choose from. Here are the most popular.

1. Nursing

Nursing is the most popular major at UMiami. Students take courses in biology, human anatomy, physiology, theories and concepts in nursing, statistics in healthcare, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 213

2. Finance

Finance majors learn about financial management, investments, and financial markets, and have the opportunity to put their knowledge to use in real-world experiences.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 189

3. Psychology

The University of Miami offers both a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in psychology. Students learn about different aspects of human behavior, including how people think, behave, feel, and relate to others. Many students go on to graduate studies in the field.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 150

4. Marketing

With one of the best marketing departments in the country, University of Miami offers marketing students courses in consumer psychology, marketing strategy, marketing analytics, behavioral pricing, corporate social responsibility, and marketing communications.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 116

5. Health Services/Health Sciences

For those interested in a career in a health or medical field, the health sciences degree provides a good start. Coursework in biology, chemistry, genetics, statistics, and physiology prepare students for further education or jobs in health care.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 108

6. Economics

Students learn economic theories, supported by data analysis, to understand modern economic problems. The program prepares students for careers in business, government, international agencies, and graduate studies. Economics students will select one of two tracks: Political Economy (P&S) or Quantitative Economics (STEM).

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 93

7. Political Science

Political science grads are ready to go out into the world to take on a variety of careers. Students study courses like public affairs, American government, comparative politics, and international relations. There is also an opportunity to study abroad in London.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 82

8. Biology

Students in the biology program will get a solid foundation in biology and then go on to learn more advanced content in biotechnology, ecology, genetics and society, human hereditary disease, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 81

9. General Business

The business program allows students to customize their studies based on their interests in finance, marketing, accounting, business analytics, legal studies, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 80

10. Advertising

Students in this program can choose one of two tracks: advertising creative or advertising management. They will learn how to build advertising campaigns, and will have the opportunity to intern in the field.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 67

Find out more here about the fields of study at the University of Miami.

Graduation Rate

Here is the graduation rate of students who started their studies at the University of Miami in 2017:

•  4 years: 73%

•  6 years: 84%

Post-Graduation Median Earnings

Graduates of UMiami earn, on average, $75,000 per year. This is more than the national average of $68,516.

By Kelly Boyer Sagert

(Last Updated – 06/2025)

The University of Iowa is a public research university with widely recognized programs in the arts and sciences, and hundreds of different areas of study. Founded in 1847, its picturesque campus is located in Iowa City along the banks of the Iowa River. As of the fall 2024 term, 32,199 students were enrolled, pursuing an array of academic degrees and dreams.

Total Cost of Attendance

The University of Iowa tuition for state residents was $11,283 in 2024-25. This is on par with the national average of $11,260 for in-state tuition at public universities. For residents of other states, tuition was $33,371, which is somewhat higher than the national average of $29,150 for out-of-state tuition.

Financial Aid

To help with the University of Iowa cost, 88% of students use one or more forms of financial aid, such as scholarships, grants, loans, or a combination of them.

Explore financial aid options: Iowa 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, 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

Of the students who use student loans to help with University of Iowa tuition, 46% have federal loans and 13% have private loans. The average amount they have in federal student loans is $5,262 and, in private student loans, $18,217.

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 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 University of Iowa cost for four years, including tuition and fees, room and board, books, and other expenses, would be $29,219 per year, for a total of $116,876, for in-state students. For out-of-state students, the per-year cost would be $51,307, for a total of $205,228.

Comparatively, the national average for four years of in-state tuition and fees at public universities would be $115,360, and $186,920 for out-of-state students, based on $28,840 and $46,730 annual costs, respectively. As you can see, the cost is just slightly higher for in-state students, but considerably higher for those who are out-of-state.

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

Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

The combined cost of University of Iowa tuition and fees plus books in 2024-25 was $12,233 for Iowa residents and $34,321 for other students.

Graduate Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees for grad school at the University of Iowa was $13,425 for in-state students and $32,372 for out-of-state students in 2024-25. The average cost for grad school is $21,730 per year.

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

Cost per Credit Hour

The cost per credit hour for part-time University of Iowa students is $387 to $434, depending on the undergraduate program of study.

Campus Housing Expenses

Off-campus housing is calculated at the same price for the 2024-25 school year.

Prospective students can learn more here .

University of Iowa Acceptance Rate

The University of Iowa has a high acceptance rate of 85%.

Admission Requirements

Here’s what you’re required to submit, and what’s recommended, with your application to the University of Iowa.

Required:

•  High school transcript with GPA

•  Proof of English proficiency

Recommended:

•  SAT or ACT scores

SAT and ACT Scores

Recently, 19% of applicants provided SAT scores and 59% submitted ACT scores. The University of Iowa is test-optional. Here are the standardized test scores at the 25th and 75th percentile at UI.

Popular Majors at the University of Iowa

The University of Iowa offers more than 200 areas of study for undergraduates. Here are the most popular majors.

1. Exercise Science and Kinesiology

After taking courses on the body’s response to the various effects of exercise, students are prepared for careers in personal training, group fitness, strength and conditioning, and sport coaching. Many choose to further their studies in physical therapy, occupational therapy, cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, or chiropractic, or by going to medical school.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 393

2. Finance

Finance majors take Financial Accounting and Reporting, Financial Information Technology, Investment Management, and Corporate Finance. Students also have the opportunity to participate in the Hawkinson Institute, a program that provides a two-course seminar, investment management speakers, and individualized professional development to sharpen their analytical abilities, market knowledge, technical tools, and skills in investment banking.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 344

3. Marketing and Marketing Management

Marketing majors can go beyond their coursework to deepen their knowledge through The Marketing Institute, a program that provides a two-course seminar with executives from top corporations, case competitions, and professional development in teamwork, writing, interviewing, and oral communications. Additionally, students can join UI’s chapter of the American Marketing Association.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 262

4. Nursing

Nursing students study Principles of Human Anatomy, Fundamentals of Human Physiology, Nutrition and Health, and Healthcare Finance. They also complete around 700 hours of clinical experience.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 229

5. Organization Leadership

In this program, business students learn about company structures, key strategies to lead, and other vital management issues.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 195

6. Liberal Studies

This online degree program gives students the chance to choose a track in one of the following: Expression in Writing and Arts; Family, Community, and Social Support; Global Studies; Health and Human Studies; Justice and Ethics; or Organizational Studies.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 184

7. Labor and Industrial Relations

Majors in this program learn about leadership, labor issues, workplace dynamics, and legal guidelines.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 159

8. Speech Communication and Rhetoric

This program in the communications department prepares students for a career in communications and/or journalism. It involves a deep dive into media and society, interpersonal and relational communication, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 156

9. Elementary Education

This rigorous program gives future elementary educators the skills they need. Students can choose a specialty like Art K-8, English as a Second Language K-12, Middle School 5-8, Reading K-8, Talented and Gifted PK-12, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 154

10. Accounting

Students get a solid business background in working with numbers. They learn how to analyze, manage, summarize, and report financial data to prepare for a career in accounting.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 143

Graduation Rate

These are the graduation rates at the University of Iowa’s class of 2017:

•  4 years: 57%

•  6 years: 73%

Post-Graduation Median Earnings

After earning their degree, University of Iowa undergrads make a median salary of $65,000 per year. That’s slightly less than the annual average of $68,516 for undergraduates nationally.

By Kelly Boyer Sagert

(Last Updated – 06/2025)

The University of Maryland is a top public research university, and its graduates have gone on to become Pulitzer Prize winners, Nobel laureates, and Fulbright scholars. Located in College Park, Maryland, not far from Washington, D.C., it’s currently home to more than 30,000 students on a campus of 1,300+ acres.

Total Cost of Attendance

University of Maryland in-state tuition in 2022-23 was $11,809, and out-of-state tuition at the University of Maryland was $41,186. UMD tuition is slightly higher than the national average for tuition at public universities of $11,260 in-state and significantly above the average tuition of $29,150 for out-of-state students.

Financial Aid

At UMD, 65% of students receive some form of financial aid. This might be scholarships, grants, student loans, or a combination of these.

Explore financial aid options: Maryland 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, or 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 student 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:

•  U.S. 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

To help pay UMD tuition and other costs, 22% of students take out federal student loans, and 4% take out private student loans, averaging $25,222.

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 of the University of Maryland for four years for in-state students, including tuition, room and board, books, and other fees, is $126,924, based on 2024-25 numbers.

The total for four years of out-of-state tuition at the University of Maryland is $244,432.

Compare these costs to the national average cost of attendance of $115,360 for in-state college students and $186,920 for out-of-state attendees. While the cost for in-state students is somewhat higher than the national norm, the price tag for out-of-state students is significantly elevated.

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

Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

By combining tuition and fees and books for in-state students, the University of Maryland cost is $13,059 for the 2024-25 school year. The cost is $42,436 for out-of-state students.

Graduate Tuition and Fees

University of Maryland tuition for in-state graduate students was $18,276, including fees, in 2024-25. For out-of-state students, the costs were $38,207.

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

Cost per Credit Hour

The cost per credit hour for part-time students from Maryland is approximately $420. For students from out of state, that cost is approximately $1,625.

Campus Housing Expenses

While freshmen are not required to live on campus, 90% choose to. There are 39 residence halls on campus offering a range of housing options, including traditional rooms, suites, semi-suites, and apartment-style living. For those who choose to live off-campus at UMD, there are many apartments within walking distance of campus. Learn more and find options for living off campus .

University of Maryland Acceptance Rate

Admission Requirements

Here’s what’s needed to apply to the University of Maryland.

Required:

•  High school transcript

•  Letters of recommendation

•  Possibly proof of English proficiency

•  Essay

Not required, but considered:

•  SAT or ACT scores

SAT and ACT Scores

Standardized test scores are currently optional at University of Maryland. In Fall 2023, 42% of applicants submitted SAT scores, and 1% provided ACT scores. Here’s a look at the scores at the 25th and 75th percentile at UMD.

Popular Majors at the University of Maryland, College Park

The University of Maryland offers more than 100 majors. Here are the most popular options.

1. Computer Science

Students can major in general Computer Science or choose a specialty: Cybersecurity, Data Science, Machine Learning, or Quantum Information.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 859

2. Information Science

Information Science majors study Database Design, Information Architecture, Web/Mobile Development, Data Analytics, and Cybersecurity. They also have the chance to participate in hands-on learning at the college’s world-renowned research centers and labs.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 573

3. Biological Sciences

There are five tracks for Biological Sciences majors: Cell Biology and Genetics, Ecology and Evolution, General Biology, Microbiology, and Physiology and Neurobiology. Students have the opportunity to participate in research projects guided by well-respected faculty members.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 489

4. Psychology

Graduating with a degree in Psychology from UMD, you will have a solid foundation in the principles of psychology, an understanding of scientific theory and critical thinking, and solid communication skills.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 431

5. Finance

After getting a solid foundation in math, economics, and financial theory, students will be prepared for careers in financial analysis and management, investment analysis and portfolio management, investment banking, insurance and risk management, banking, and international finance.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 369

6. Public Health Science

This major brings together the sciences and health topics. Graduates go on to work in a variety of fields, including research, public health, human services, and health care.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 355

7. Mechanical Engineering

Students in this program can choose a program track that includes Aero/Mechanical Industry, Automotive Design, Design and Manufacturing, Energy and the Environment, Engineering Management, and Robotics and Mechatronics.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 327

8. Criminology

Students interested in Criminology will learn about all the aspects of the field. They’ll also have the opportunity to participate in independent studies, internships, and extracurricular programs that sharpen their skills for their future careers.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 318

9. Economics

Pursuing an Economics degree involves courses like Principles of Microeconomics, Applied Economic Statistics, and Methods and Tools for Economic Analysis.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 288

10. Communication

Students can major in Communication Studies or in Health and Science Communication, Media and Digital Communication, Political Communication and Public Advocacy, or Public Relations.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 236

Graduation Rate

These are the graduation rates at the University of Maryland, using data from the class that entered in Fall 2017.

•  4 years: 76%

•  6 years: 88%

Post-Graduation Median Earnings

UMD undergraduates can expect to earn substantially more than the national average for college graduates, which is currently $68,516. They tend to make, on average, $82,860 a year.