Marshall University's published cost of attendance is $21,299 per year, including $20,294 in out-of-state tuition (or $8,942 for West Virginia residents), $12,852 for room and board, and $1,100 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays just $8,327 after financial aid, representing savings of $12,972 annually.
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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) | $21,299 |
| Tuition and Fees | $20,294 |
| Room and Board | $12,852 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,100 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$12,972 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $8,327 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $4,820 |
| $30–48k | $5,572 |
| $48–75k | $7,970 |
| $75–110k | $12,243 |
| $110k+ | $15,496 |
Marshall University's published cost of attendance is $21,299 per year, including $20,294 in out-of-state tuition (or $8,942 for West Virginia residents), $12,852 for room and board, and $1,100 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays just $8,327 after financial aid, representing savings of $12,972 annually. This net price places Marshall significantly below the peer median of $14,093, providing $5,766 in additional savings compared to similar public institutions.
The substantial difference between sticker price and net price demonstrates Marshall's commitment to affordability through financial aid. For West Virginia residents, the effective cost advantage is even greater given the lower in-state tuition base. The university's financial aid approach particularly benefits lower-income students, with net costs declining substantially as family income decreases.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is moderate relative to earnings. Manageable for most graduates, but higher-debt borrowers should plan carefully.
Marshall University graduates carry a median debt load of $23,250, compared to the peer median of $21,105, representing $2,145 additional borrowing. Debt levels range from $5,500 at the 25th percentile to $26,584 at the 75th percentile, with the variation reflecting differences in family financial circumstances and program length.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.50 indicates that annual debt payments represent approximately half of first-year post-graduation earnings, which is manageable though not exceptional. Marshall's debt percentile ranking of 45th nationally places it around typical levels for public institutions.
Parent PLUS borrowing averages $12,136 with monthly payments of approximately $160, representing additional family financial responsibility. Despite slightly higher debt levels than peers, the controlled net price and earnings beyond expectations help graduates manage loan obligations.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
Marshall University delivers $2,794 in earnings beyond expectations, placing it in the 66.6th percentile nationally for value-added performance. While median earnings of $46,354 rank in the 30th percentile nationally, the university's ability to exceed predicted outcomes based on student demographics demonstrates effective educational value.
Graduates earn $3,762 less annually than the peer median of $50,116, but also carry debt levels only $2,145 higher than peer institutions. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.50 indicates manageable loan obligations relative to income.
Marshall's investment profile particularly benefits students seeking mobility from lower-income backgrounds, with strong affordability outcomes that support degree completion and career advancement. The combination of accessible admission, controlled costs, and value-added performance creates favorable conditions for students prioritizing affordability and mobility over maximum earnings potential.
Marshall University's financial aid effectiveness is demonstrated by the $12,972 average savings compared to published costs. The 37.8% Pell share indicates substantial enrollment of students from families earning less than approximately $50,000 annually, while the progressive net price structure shows aid concentrated toward those with greatest financial need.
Lower-income students receive aid packages that reduce costs to $4,820, making college affordable even for families with limited resources. The aid targeting aligns with Marshall's student composition, supporting both access and degree completion for first-generation and lower-income students.
Financial aid savings exceed 60% of published costs on average, indicating robust institutional commitment to affordability. The combination of federal Pell grants, state aid, and institutional support creates comprehensive packages that make Marshall accessible to West Virginia families across economic backgrounds, supporting the university's role as a mobility engine for students seeking economic advancement through higher education.
