Northern Arizona University's published cost of attendance is $29,495 per year, including $28,900 in out-of-state tuition (or $12,652 for in-state residents), $11,728 for room and board, and $900 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays just $14,922 after financial aid, representing savings of $14,573 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) | $29,495 |
| Tuition and Fees | $28,900 |
| Room and Board | $11,728 |
| Books and Supplies | $900 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$14,573 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $14,922 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $10,333 |
| $30–48k | $11,015 |
| $48–75k | $14,211 |
| $75–110k | $19,013 |
| $110k+ | $20,484 |
Northern Arizona University's published cost of attendance is $29,495 per year, including $28,900 in out-of-state tuition (or $12,652 for in-state residents), $11,728 for room and board, and $900 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays just $14,922 after financial aid, representing savings of $14,573 from the sticker price. This net price compares to a peer median of $15,590, making Northern Arizona University $668 higher than similar institutions. The financial aid system provides meaningful cost reduction across income levels, with net prices ranging from $10,333 for families earning under $30,000 to $20,484 for those earning over $110,000.
This progressive pricing structure reflects targeted aid distribution, with lower-income families receiving substantially more assistance. The $10,151 gap between the lowest and highest income tiers indicates significant aid concentration toward students with the greatest financial need. For families evaluating college costs, Northern Arizona University's aid packaging makes attendance more accessible than the published sticker price suggests, particularly for students from lower and middle-income backgrounds who benefit most from institutional and federal aid programs.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
Northern Arizona University graduates carry a median debt of $19,000, comparing favorably to the peer median of $20,000 and placing the institution in the 75th percentile for manageable debt levels. Debt ranges from $5,500 at the 25th percentile to $23,726 at the 75th percentile, indicating variation in borrowing patterns across students.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.35 suggests manageable repayment obligations relative to post-graduation income, with annual debt payments representing roughly one-third of typical first-year earnings. Parent PLUS debt averages $20,500 among families who borrow, with monthly payments of approximately $270. The controlled undergraduate debt levels reflect Northern Arizona University's relatively modest net prices and financial aid effectiveness in limiting borrowing needs.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
Northern Arizona University delivers solid return on educational investment, particularly given its accessibility and student demographics. Graduates earn $6,589 beyond expectations compared to similar students, ranking at the 78.5th percentile nationally for value creation.
This positive uplift indicates the institution adds meaningful value above what would be predicted for its student population and institutional characteristics. Median earnings of $54,384 combined with manageable debt of $19,000 create favorable financial outcomes for graduates. The earnings-to-debt ratio of 0.35 supports sustainable repayment timelines, while the below-peer debt levels reduce financial stress for graduates.
Northern Arizona University's ability to generate earnings beyond expectations while maintaining broad accessibility and controlled costs represents strong investment value, particularly for students from underrepresented backgrounds. The combination of economic mobility outcomes, manageable debt, and open access creates compelling value for students seeking educational opportunity with positive financial returns.
Northern Arizona University enrolls 29.8% Pell-eligible students, indicating substantial service to lower-income populations who benefit most from federal and institutional aid programs. The $14,573 average financial aid savings represents nearly half of the published cost of attendance, demonstrating meaningful aid packaging across the student body.
Net prices by income tier show concentrated aid distribution, with families earning under $48,000 receiving the most substantial cost reductions. The aid structure supports Northern Arizona University's access mission, making attendance financially feasible for students from diverse economic backgrounds. The significant gap between sticker price and net price indicates that most families pay substantially less than published costs, with aid packaging designed to address affordability barriers.
This financial aid approach aligns with the institution's high Pell share and first-generation enrollment, creating pathways for students who might otherwise find college costs prohibitive. The progressive pricing by income ensures that aid concentrates where financial need is greatest, supporting economic diversity within the student body.
Combined with median earnings of $54,384, the debt load appears sustainable for most graduates, supporting long-term financial stability. The below-peer debt levels indicate that students can access Northern Arizona University's educational opportunities without excessive borrowing, an important factor for economic mobility outcomes.
