Appalachian State's published cost of attendance reaches $22,654 annually, consisting of $24,537 in out-of-state tuition (or $7,541 for in-state residents), $12,258 for room and board, and $800 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays significantly less after financial aid.
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Net prices are averages and may vary. Based on federal data for first-time, full-time students receiving aid.
| Cost Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Cost of Attendance (Sticker Price) | $23,169 |
| Tuition and Fees | $25,212 |
| Room and Board | $12,868 |
| Books and Supplies | $800 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$6,333 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $16,836 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $9,325 |
| $30–48k | $11,600 |
| $48–75k | $15,204 |
| $75–110k | $20,840 |
| $110k+ | $22,382 |
Appalachian State's published cost of attendance reaches $22,654 annually, consisting of $24,537 in out-of-state tuition (or $7,541 for in-state residents), $12,258 for room and board, and $800 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays significantly less after financial aid. The average net price across all income levels is $16,487, representing $6,167 in financial aid savings from the sticker price.
This net price falls $897 below the peer median of $15,590, making Appalachian State slightly more expensive than similar institutions. The university's pricing structure reflects its public mission while generating revenue from out-of-state students. In-state students benefit substantially from North Carolina's investment in public higher education, paying less than one-third of the out-of-state rate.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
Appalachian State graduates carry median debt of $20,231, ranking at the 69.0th percentile nationally and falling $231 below the peer median of $20,000. Debt levels range from $7,217 at the 25th percentile to $25,000 at the 75th percentile, showing moderate variation in borrowing patterns.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.39 indicates that median debt represents 39% of first-year post-graduation earnings, falling within manageable ranges for most graduates. Parent PLUS borrowing adds median debt of $18,721 with monthly payments of $247 for families who choose this option.
The combination of controlled student debt and reasonable earnings creates conditions where most graduates can manage repayment obligations. Debt levels remain consistent with peer institutions while supporting access for students who require borrowing to complete their degrees.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
Appalachian State's investment profile balances accessibility with economic outcomes, though earnings fall below expectations by $13,054, ranking at the 9.1st percentile for earnings beyond expectations. Median earnings of $51,836 rank around the national average at the 46.0th percentile, while peer institutions produce median earnings of $60,543, creating an $8,707 disadvantage.
However, the university's debt levels of $20,231 compare favorably to the peer median of $20,000. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.39 remains within sustainable ranges for most graduates.
Low-income graduates earn $40,300, ranking in the top 50% nationally, indicating that the university delivers particularly strong outcomes for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. This investment profile supports students seeking economic mobility through higher education, even though absolute earnings levels may not match more expensive or selective alternatives.
Appalachian State's financial aid approach prioritizes access for students from lower-income backgrounds. With 25.7% Pell enrollment compared to national averages, the university serves a meaningful share of students requiring federal grant assistance.
The $6,167 average financial aid savings reduces costs by 27.2% from the published price. Net prices by income tier show progressive aid distribution, with the lowest-income students paying $8,370 compared to $21,991 for highest-income families.
This 2.6:1 ratio between highest and lowest net prices indicates substantial aid targeting. The university's aid profile supports its Opportunity Builder designation by making education accessible to students who might otherwise face financial barriers to four-year degree completion.
