North Dakota State University's published cost of attendance is $23,391 per year, including $15,511 in out-of-state tuition ($10,857 for in-state residents), $9,565 for room and board, and $800 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays just $16,334 after financial aid, representing savings of $7,057 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) | $23,716 |
| Tuition and Fees | $15,764 |
| Room and Board | $9,928 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,100 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$8,173 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $15,543 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $9,370 |
| $30–48k | $11,343 |
| $48–75k | $11,923 |
| $75–110k | $16,082 |
| $110k+ | $18,856 |
North Dakota State University's published cost of attendance is $23,391 per year, including $15,511 in out-of-state tuition ($10,857 for in-state residents), $9,565 for room and board, and $800 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays just $16,334 after financial aid, representing savings of $7,057 from the sticker price. This net price sits $2,241 below the peer median of $14,093, making North Dakota State more affordable than similar institutions.
The university's relatively modest sticker price compared to many four-year institutions, combined with meaningful financial aid, creates accessible pricing for middle-income families. Net costs range significantly by family income, from $10,647 for the lowest-income families to $19,218 for the highest-income families, reflecting targeted financial aid distribution. The $8,571 gap between lowest and highest income tiers indicates progressive aid policies that support lower-income students while maintaining accessibility across income levels.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
North Dakota State University graduates carry median debt of $23,199, close to the peer median of $21,105, indicating typical borrowing levels for similar institutions. Debt ranges from $6,449 at the 25th percentile to $25,749 at the 75th percentile, showing variation in individual borrowing decisions and financial circumstances.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37 represents manageable levels relative to post-graduation income, with monthly payments representing reasonable portions of graduate earnings. Parent PLUS borrowers carry median debt of $14,572, with monthly payments of $192, adding to family education financing.
The debt percentile of 48th nationally places the university around typical levels for four-year institutions, neither exceptionally high nor low. Debt levels $2,094 below peer medians suggest slightly more controlled borrowing or stronger aid programs compared to similar universities.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
North Dakota State University delivers strong investment value through the combination of reasonable costs and solid post-graduation outcomes. While graduates earn $3,152 below expectations relative to student demographics, placing the university around the national average for value-added performance, absolute earnings of $62,203 rank in the 76th percentile nationally.
Graduates earn $12,087 more than the peer median of $50,116, demonstrating clear advantage over similar institutions. The manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37 creates sustainable repayment conditions for most graduates.
Net price levels $2,241 below peer medians enhance the investment proposition by reducing upfront costs while maintaining strong outcomes. The university's return on investment percentile of 81st demonstrates strong performance in the relationship between costs and benefits.
North Dakota State University's financial aid approach creates meaningful affordability improvements across income levels. The average $7,057 in financial aid savings reduces the effective cost by 30% compared to sticker price, making the university accessible to families across economic backgrounds.
With 18.7% of students receiving Pell grants, the university serves a moderate share of lower-income students who benefit most from need-based aid programs. The progressive aid structure, ranging from $4,173 in average aid for high-income families to over $12,000 for low-income families, demonstrates targeted support for students with greatest financial need.
Net price levels below peer medians across most income ranges indicate that the university provides competitive affordability relative to similar institutions. The aid distribution supports the university's mission of broad access while maintaining sustainable operations.
