Arkansas State University's published cost of attendance reaches $22,823 per year, including $13,826 in out-of-state tuition, $11,100 for room and board, and $1,250 for books and supplies. In-state students pay significantly less with tuition of $7,754.
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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) | $25,082 |
| Tuition and Fees | $14,522 |
| Room and Board | $11,550 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,250 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$12,716 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $12,366 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $10,098 |
| $30–48k | $9,255 |
| $48–75k | $12,205 |
| $75–110k | $15,839 |
| $110k+ | $16,444 |
Arkansas State University's published cost of attendance reaches $22,823 per year, including $13,826 in out-of-state tuition, $11,100 for room and board, and $1,250 for books and supplies. In-state students pay significantly less with tuition of $7,754. However, the average student pays just $13,085 after financial aid, representing savings of $9,738 from the sticker price. This net price of $13,085 sits slightly above the peer median of $14,093, meaning Arkansas State costs about $1,008 less than comparable institutions.
The university's position as well above average in affordability reflects this combination of moderate published costs and meaningful financial aid that reduces actual student expenses. Net price varies substantially by family income, ranging from $9,806 for the lowest-income families to $17,431 for the highest-income families, showing progressive aid distribution that supports access for students from diverse economic backgrounds.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
Arkansas State University graduates maintain manageable debt levels that support post-graduation financial stability. Median student debt reaches $20,500, sitting $605 below the peer median of $21,105 and placing Arkansas State in the above average tier for debt management.
Debt levels range from $5,500 at the 25th percentile to $25,250 at the 75th percentile, showing variation in borrowing patterns among students. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.48 indicates that graduates' debt levels represent about 48% of their first-year post-graduation earnings, which falls within manageable ranges though requiring extended repayment periods. Parent PLUS debt averages $11,000 with monthly payments of $145, representing additional family borrowing that supplements student aid packages.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
Arkansas State University delivers modest educational returns at controlled cost, creating reasonable value for students seeking accessible higher education. Graduates earn around the national average relative to expectations, with a value-added impact of $-1,832, placing the institution in the typical tier for earnings beyond expectations.
While absolute earnings of $42,617 rank below national averages, the combination of manageable debt levels and steady employment outcomes creates sustainable post-graduation financial conditions. Compared to peer institutions, Arkansas State graduates earn $7,499 less annually but maintain $605 lower debt levels, resulting in mixed value proposition that favors debt management over earnings maximization. The university's strong affordability ranking reflects this emphasis on cost control rather than earnings optimization.
For students prioritizing degree attainment with manageable debt over maximum earnings potential, Arkansas State provides reasonable investment value, particularly for in-state students who benefit from reduced tuition rates.
Arkansas State University's financial aid profile reflects its mission to serve students from diverse economic backgrounds. With 36.8% of students receiving Pell grants, the university enrolls a substantial share of lower-income students who benefit from federal need-based aid.
The $9,738 average financial aid savings demonstrates significant institutional and federal aid that reduces costs below published prices for most families. The progressive net price structure, declining from $17,431 for high-income families to $9,806 for low-income families, shows aid targeting that supports access for students who might otherwise be priced out of higher education. This aid distribution aligns with Arkansas State's strong access index ranking, as families with greatest need receive proportionally more assistance.
The gap between published cost of attendance and actual net price indicates most students receive some form of financial aid, creating affordability for families across income levels.
The combination of below-peer student debt and moderate earnings creates conditions where graduates can service their educational loans without overwhelming financial burden, though careful financial planning remains important.
