Ball State University publishes a cost of attendance of $25,134 annually, including $10,758 in-state tuition, $12,064 for room and board, and $1,360 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays significantly less after financial aid, with a net price of $15,898 representing savings of $9,236 from the sticker price.
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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) | $26,146 |
| Tuition and Fees | $29,630 |
| Room and Board | $12,334 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,400 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$11,206 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $14,940 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $7,834 |
| $30–48k | $9,848 |
| $48–75k | $14,333 |
| $75–110k | $19,567 |
| $110k+ | $23,479 |
Ball State University publishes a cost of attendance of $25,134 annually, including $10,758 in-state tuition, $12,064 for room and board, and $1,360 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays significantly less after financial aid, with a net price of $15,898 representing savings of $9,236 from the sticker price. This net price positions Ball State slightly below the peer median of $15,590, making it a competitive value among similar public institutions.
The university demonstrates commitment to affordability through substantial financial aid that reduces published costs by more than one-third for typical students. Ball State's cost structure reflects the accessibility mission of public higher education, with in-state tuition kept moderate while room and board costs align with regional standards. Out-of-state students face higher tuition of $28,766, though financial aid can offset much of this premium depending on family circumstances.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
Ball State graduates carry median debt loads of $23,250, which places the university around the national average at the 45th percentile for borrowing levels. Student debt ranges from $7,000 at the 25th percentile to $27,000 at the 75th percentile, indicating that many students graduate with relatively modest borrowing while others require more substantial loans.
Compared to peer institutions with a median debt of $20,000, Ball State students borrow $3,250 more on average, representing a modest premium above similar universities. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45 means that typical graduates dedicate less than half of their first year's median income to student loan obligations, indicating manageable repayment burden.
Parent PLUS borrowing averages $18,290 with monthly payments of $241, representing additional family borrowing beyond student loans. The debt levels reflect Ball State's moderate net price structure, where students and families use borrowing to bridge gaps between financial aid and actual costs.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
Ball State represents a moderate educational investment with mixed return characteristics that emphasize access over premium outcomes. Graduate earnings of $51,833 place the university around the national average, while performing $6,802 below earnings expectations relative to student demographics and institutional characteristics.
However, median debt of $23,250 creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45, indicating that graduates can manage loan obligations within reasonable timeframes. Compared to peer institutions, Ball State graduates earn $8,710 less annually but borrow only $3,250 more, creating a net disadvantage in the earnings-to-debt equation.
The university's value proposition centers on educational access and opportunity rather than maximizing return on investment. Students prioritizing degree attainment, diverse campus environments, and moderate debt levels may find Ball State's investment profile appealing despite modest earnings outcomes.
Ball State's financial aid approach prioritizes access for lower-income students, with 33.6% of enrolled students receiving Pell grants indicating substantial need-based aid distribution. The university's net price of $15,898 represents a $9,236 reduction from published costs, demonstrating significant institutional commitment to affordability.
Financial aid targeting appears most generous for families earning under $48,000, who receive aid packages that reduce costs to single-digit thousands annually. The substantial aid reductions across all income tiers indicate that Ball State uses both federal and institutional resources to support student access.
Middle-income families still receive meaningful aid, with net prices remaining well below published costs even for higher-earning households. The financial aid profile supports Ball State's role as an Opportunity Builder institution, removing cost barriers that might prevent student enrollment.
