James Madison University's published cost of attendance reaches $30,213 annually, including $30,790 in out-of-state tuition (or $13,576 for Virginia residents), $12,584 for room and board, and $1,254 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) | $30,213 |
| Tuition and Fees | $30,790 |
| Room and Board | $12,584 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,254 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$8,397 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $21,816 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $10,582 |
| $30–48k | $12,172 |
| $48–75k | $17,150 |
| $75–110k | $23,171 |
| $110k+ | $28,869 |
James Madison University's published cost of attendance reaches $30,213 annually, including $30,790 in out-of-state tuition (or $13,576 for Virginia residents), $12,584 for room and board, and $1,254 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays significantly less after financial aid. The average net price across all income levels is $21,816, representing financial aid savings of $8,397 from the sticker price.
Compared to peer institutions, JMU's net price runs $6,226 higher than the peer median of $15,590, indicating above-average costs for a public university in this category. This cost premium reflects JMU's strong academic reputation and comprehensive student services, though it places the institution in a higher cost tier than many comparable public universities. The cost structure varies dramatically by family income, with the lowest-income students paying significantly less than those from higher-income families.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
Student borrowing at James Madison University remains manageable relative to earning potential, with median debt of $20,093 upon graduation. Debt levels span from $7,500 at the 25th percentile to $26,000 at the 75th percentile, indicating that most students graduate with moderate debt loads.
At the 69th percentile nationally, JMU's debt levels are above average but not excessive, essentially matching the peer median debt of $20,000 with just $93 less borrowing than comparable institutions. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.29 falls within sustainable ranges, meaning typical graduates can manage loan payments from expected income levels.
Parent PLUS loans average $32,402 with monthly payments of $427, representing additional borrowing that some families use to supplement student aid packages. With median earnings of $69,954, graduates typically have sufficient income capacity to handle their debt obligations while maintaining reasonable living standards.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
James Madison University represents a solid educational investment despite modest value-added performance relative to student preparation levels. While graduates earn $11,005 below expectations based on incoming student characteristics, they achieve strong absolute earnings of $69,954 that exceed peer medians by $9,411 annually.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.29 indicates sustainable borrowing levels that allow graduates to manage loan payments while building post-graduation wealth. Student debt of $20,093 aligns with peer institutions, avoiding excessive borrowing that could undermine long-term financial health.
The combination of accessible admission, strong absolute outcomes, and moderate debt creates favorable investment conditions for students who value educational accessibility alongside career preparation. JMU's strength lies in delivering competitive market outcomes rather than maximizing value relative to student inputs, making it well-suited for students prioritizing career readiness and earning potential over value optimization.
James Madison University concentrates financial aid toward students from lower-income backgrounds, though the overall aid distribution reflects the institution's moderate Pell enrollment. With 16.8% of students receiving Pell grants, JMU serves fewer low-income students than many public universities, but provides substantial support for those who do enroll.
The $8,397 average financial aid savings indicates meaningful institutional investment in affordability, though costs remain above peer levels even after aid. Low-income students receive net pricing that makes JMU accessible at $10,582 annually, while middle-income families face costs that may stretch household budgets.
The aid structure suggests that JMU prioritizes supporting students from families earning under $75,000 annually, with more limited aid available for middle- and upper-income students. This financial aid approach aligns with the institution's Selective Achievers profile, where moderate access combines with strong outcomes for enrolled students.
