Oakland University's published cost of attendance totals $25,016 annually, including $14,694 in-state tuition, $11,309 for room and board, and $700 for books and supplies. Out-of-state students face tuition of $23,188, though most students benefit from substantial financial aid that reduces actual costs significantly.
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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) | $25,182 |
| Tuition and Fees | $23,188 |
| Room and Board | $10,932 |
| Books and Supplies | $700 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$16,062 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $9,120 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $4,422 |
| $30–48k | $4,560 |
| $48–75k | $6,711 |
| $75–110k | $11,874 |
| $110k+ | $19,217 |
Oakland University's published cost of attendance totals $25,016 annually, including $14,694 in-state tuition, $11,309 for room and board, and $700 for books and supplies. Out-of-state students face tuition of $23,188, though most students benefit from substantial financial aid that reduces actual costs significantly. The average student pays $13,584 after financial aid, representing savings of $11,432 from the sticker price through grants, scholarships, and other aid programs.
Compared to peer institutions with a median net price of $15,590, Oakland University students pay $2,006 more annually, though this difference reflects moderate cost positioning within public higher education. The financial aid structure demonstrates Oakland University's commitment to accessibility, with lower-income students receiving the most substantial support. Net prices vary significantly by family income, ranging from $9,004 for families earning under $30,000 to $22,034 for families earning over $110,000.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
Oakland University graduates carry median debt of $22,750, positioned around the national average with a debt percentile ranking of 51.0. Debt levels range from $7,500 at the 25th percentile to $28,000 at the 75th percentile, showing moderate variation in borrowing patterns among students.
Compared to peer institutions with median debt of $20,000, Oakland University graduates borrow $2,750 more, though this difference remains within reasonable bounds for public university financing. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.39 indicates manageable borrowing relative to post-graduation income, falling within sustainable ranges for loan repayment.
Parent PLUS borrowing averages $15,936 with monthly payments of approximately $210, representing additional family investment in education. The combination of moderate debt levels with above average earnings outcomes supports favorable long-term financial sustainability for graduates.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
Oakland University delivers solid return on educational investment through the combination of moderate costs, manageable debt, and above average earnings outcomes. Graduates earn $4,609 beyond expectations at the 72.6th percentile nationally, indicating meaningful educational value beyond predicted outcomes.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.39 positions within sustainable ranges for loan repayment, while median debt of $22,750 remains reasonable relative to earning potential of $58,612. Compared to peer institutions, Oakland University students pay slightly more ($2,006 higher net price) while borrowing moderately more ($2,750 additional debt), though these differences are offset by above average earnings performance.
The return index percentile of 74.7% indicates above average return on investment when considering all factors including costs, debt, and outcomes. Students can expect positive returns on their educational investment, particularly in high-earning programs like engineering, computer science, and business.
Oakland University provides substantial financial aid support, averaging $11,432 in savings from the published cost of attendance through federal, state, and institutional programs. The aid structure particularly benefits lower-income students, with families earning under $30,000 receiving aid that reduces costs to $9,004, well below the $13,584 institutional average.
This progressive approach aligns with the university's mission to serve diverse student populations, including the 29.8% Pell-eligible enrollment and 32.4% first-generation students. Financial aid effectiveness varies by income level, with the most substantial support directed toward students with the greatest financial need.
The $2,006 higher net price compared to peer institutions suggests Oakland University's aid programs, while substantial, face constraints typical of public funding environments. Students should expect aid packages combining federal Pell grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships, with work-study opportunities available to supplement assistance.
