Tuition and College Costs

College costs generally include tuition and fees, room and board, books, supplies, and transportation. College costs vary and will depend on the type of school attended and the number of courses taken. 

When looking at the cost of college, it is easy to be alarmed by the price tag. However, it is important to note that most full-time college students receive some form of financial aid, making the cost of college much lower than the published tuition amount. The Washington College Grant (WA Grant), one of the most generous financial aid programs in the country, can cover the cost of college or career training for many Washington residents. 

Tuition and fees

The largest portion of colleges costs is tuition, which is payment for any classes you take. For the current rates of tuition and fees, visit the website of the Washington college or university of your choice.

Fees cover things like facilities or activity costs. Some, such as building or technology fees, are required for every student. Others are specific to a student’s classes or other needs, like lab fees or parking permits.   

Living expenses

• Room and board includes food and the cost of living in a college dorm or apartment.
• Books and supplies are required for most classes. Costs will vary depending on the types of courses taken.
• Personal expenses include items like clothing, groceries, and laundry.
• Transportation expenses include gas, parking, and travel home for the holidays.

Cost of not going to college

While the cost of college can be significant, the cost of not going is higher. Over a lifetime, a college graduate will earn about $1 million more than someone with only a high school diploma. And the more education you have, the more likely you are to:

• Live longer
• Have better health
• Stay employed
• Enjoy your work
• Earn more money
• Change careers more easily

*Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2023

Tax benefits

You may be eligible for federal income tax credits and other deductions. See IRS Publication 970: Tax Deductions for College Expenses for information about tax credits and deductions, including the following:

• American Opportunity Credit
• Lifetime Learning Tax Credit
• Student Loan Interest Deduction
• Tuition and Fees Deduction

Tuition savings in other western states

Washington students may be eligible for reduced out-of-state tuition at participating institutions via the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) Student Access Programs. Eligible undergraduate and graduate students can choose from hundreds of programs outside their home state and pay no more than 150 percent of that institution’s resident tuition rate. Requirements vary by program and institution. Learn more on the WICHE website.