California State University-Stanislaus publishes a cost of attendance of $18,542 per year, consisting of $19,706 in out-of-state tuition (though in-state students pay $7,826), $12,728 for room and board, and $1,038 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays just $5,671 after financial aid, representing substantial savings of $12,871 from the published 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) | $18,542 |
| Tuition and Fees | $19,706 |
| Room and Board | $12,728 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,038 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$12,871 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $5,671 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $3,218 |
| $30–48k | $3,946 |
| $48–75k | $6,347 |
| $75–110k | $10,199 |
| $110k+ | $16,815 |
California State University-Stanislaus publishes a cost of attendance of $18,542 per year, consisting of $19,706 in out-of-state tuition (though in-state students pay $7,826), $12,728 for room and board, and $1,038 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays just $5,671 after financial aid, representing substantial savings of $12,871 from the published price. This dramatic reduction reflects the university's commitment to affordability and its effectiveness in providing financial assistance to students, particularly given that 55.3% of enrolled students are Pell-eligible.
The net price of $5,671 ranks exceptionally well compared to the peer median of $14,093, meaning Cal State Stanislaus costs $8,422 less annually than comparable institutions. This affordability advantage stems from both the university's lower base costs as a California State University system institution and its strategic financial aid allocation. For many students, particularly those from lower-income families, the actual cost of attendance becomes remarkably manageable through a combination of federal Pell grants, state Cal Grants, and institutional aid.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
California State University-Stanislaus demonstrates exceptional performance in debt management and borrowing outcomes for graduates. The median student debt of $13,540 ranks in the 88th percentile nationally and falls $7,565 below the peer median of $21,105, indicating highly effective cost control and financial aid strategies.
Student debt ranges from $5,500 at the 25th percentile to $21,950 at the 75th percentile, showing that most students borrow modest amounts relative to national patterns. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.21 indicates highly manageable borrowing relative to post-graduation income, as graduates earn $63,188 while carrying relatively low debt burdens.
Parent PLUS borrowing averages $12,000 with monthly payments of approximately $158, representing additional family investment but at manageable levels. The combination of low net prices and modest debt levels creates favorable financial conditions for post-graduation financial stability.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
Cal State Stanislaus delivers exceptional return on educational investment through the combination of strong earnings outcomes and controlled costs. Graduates earn $18,121 beyond expectations compared to similar students nationally, ranking in the 93.3rd percentile with top-tier performance on this critical value measure.
With median earnings of $63,188 and debt of just $13,540, graduates achieve a favorable debt-to-earnings ratio that supports long-term financial stability. The earnings advantage over peer institutions ($13,072 higher than the $50,116 peer median) combined with debt levels $7,565 below peer institutions creates compelling investment economics.
Students graduate with earnings in the 78th percentile nationally while carrying debt burdens well below average, indicating exceptional value creation. The institution's top 25 national ranking for earnings beyond expectations demonstrates consistent ability to exceed predicted outcomes based on student demographics and institutional characteristics.
Cal State Stanislaus demonstrates exceptional effectiveness in financial aid distribution and affordability outcomes. With 55.3% of students receiving Pell grants, the university serves a predominantly lower-income population that benefits significantly from federal, state, and institutional financial assistance.
The average financial aid savings of $12,871 reduces the effective cost by nearly 70% from the published sticker price. Net prices by income tier show progressive aid allocation, with the lowest-income students paying just $3,218 annually while middle-income families pay $6,347.
This aid strategy reflects both California's robust state financial aid system and the university's institutional commitment to access. The substantial peer advantage in net price ($8,422 lower than comparable institutions) indicates that Cal State Stanislaus successfully leverages multiple funding sources to maintain affordability.
