CUNY John Jay represents exceptional affordability among four-year institutions, with published cost of attendance reaching $13,712 per year. This includes $7,470 in-state tuition, room and board costs, and $1,500 for books and supplies.
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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) | $14,212 |
| Tuition and Fees | $15,420 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,500 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$11,009 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $3,203 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $1,073 |
| $30–48k | $2,506 |
| $48–75k | $6,760 |
| $75–110k | $8,427 |
| $110k+ | $13,292 |
CUNY John Jay represents exceptional affordability among four-year institutions, with published cost of attendance reaching $13,712 per year. This includes $7,470 in-state tuition, room and board costs, and $1,500 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays just $3,046 after financial aid, representing savings of $10,666 from the sticker price.
This dramatic reduction reflects the institution's commitment to accessible public education and substantial state subsidies for New York residents. The average net price of $3,046 falls well below the peer median of $15,590, creating a $12,544 advantage for CUNY John Jay students. This affordability extends across all income levels, with even the highest-earning families paying just $12,827 annually.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
CUNY John Jay students graduate with remarkably manageable debt levels that support long-term financial stability. Median student debt reaches just $11,000 at graduation, substantially below the peer median of $20,000, creating a $9,000 advantage for CUNY John Jay graduates.
Debt levels span from $3,750 at the 25th percentile to $15,250 at the 75th percentile, indicating most students borrow modest amounts relative to their earning potential. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.20 means typical graduates owe approximately 20% of their first-year salary in student loans, well within sustainable repayment parameters.
This favorable ratio results from the combination of low borrowing requirements and solid post-graduation earnings in criminal justice fields. Parent PLUS loans average $16,716 with monthly payments of $220, representing manageable obligations for families who choose this borrowing option.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
CUNY John Jay delivers exceptional return on educational investment through its combination of low costs and solid career preparation. Graduates earn $8,909 beyond expectations relative to similar students, ranking in the 83.6th percentile nationally for earnings uplift given student demographics and institutional characteristics.
While median earnings of $56,195 rank in the 61st percentile nationally, the true value lies in the remarkable cost-effectiveness of the education. With median debt of $11,000 compared to peer median debt of $20,000, CUNY John Jay graduates enter the workforce with significantly lower financial obligations.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.20 ensures manageable repayment schedules that support career flexibility and financial stability. This investment profile particularly benefits students interested in public service careers where starting salaries may be modest but job security and benefits are strong.
CUNY John Jay's financial aid system effectively serves its diverse student population, with 59.2% of students receiving Pell grants indicating substantial enrollment of lower-income students. The $10,666 average savings from financial aid demonstrates comprehensive support that makes college accessible regardless of family economic circumstances.
Aid concentration toward Pell-eligible students creates the progressive pricing structure that enables students from families earning under $30,000 to attend for just $1,290 annually. The high Pell share, combined with 48.5% first-generation enrollment, reflects the institution's success in removing financial barriers that might otherwise prevent college attendance.
State funding and federal aid programs work together to ensure that qualified students can pursue criminal justice education without accumulating excessive debt. The aid system recognizes that many students face competing financial pressures from work and family obligations, providing support that enables degree completion despite economic challenges.
