What is a sticker price for higher education?

Sticker price for higher education refers to the full cost of attending a college or university before any financial aid or scholarships are applied. This cost includes tuition, fees, room and board, books and supplies, and personal expenses.

The sticker price for higher education can vary significantly depending on the type of institution (public vs. private), the location, and the level of degree being pursued. For example, in-state tuition at a public university is typically lower than out-of-state or private institution tuition.

According to data from the College Board, the average sticker price for tuition and fees at public four-year institutions for the 2021-2022 academic year was $10,740 for in-state students and $27,560 for out-of-state students. For private nonprofit four-year institutions, the average sticker price was $38,070.

It's important to note that most students do not pay the full sticker price for higher education due to financial aid, scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. It's recommended for students and families to research and apply for financial aid options to help reduce the overall cost of attending college.