Oregon State University's published cost of attendance totals $29,926 annually, including $35,664 in out-of-state tuition, $15,075 for room and board, and $600 for books and supplies. In-state students pay significantly less with tuition of $13,494, reducing total attendance costs substantially.
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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) | $29,926 |
| Tuition and Fees | $35,664 |
| Room and Board | $15,075 |
| Books and Supplies | $600 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$10,358 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $19,568 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $13,219 |
| $30–48k | $14,376 |
| $48–75k | $16,992 |
| $75–110k | $22,243 |
| $110k+ | $26,447 |
Oregon State University's published cost of attendance totals $29,926 annually, including $35,664 in out-of-state tuition, $15,075 for room and board, and $600 for books and supplies. In-state students pay significantly less with tuition of $13,494, reducing total attendance costs substantially. However, the average student pays just $19,568 after financial aid, representing savings of $10,358 from the sticker price.
This net price falls $3,978 below the peer median of $15,590, indicating Oregon State University provides favorable affordability compared to similar large public research universities. The substantial difference between published costs and actual net price demonstrates the institution's commitment to financial aid accessibility. Out-of-state students face higher costs but still benefit from aid that reduces actual expenses well below published rates.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
Oregon State University graduates carry median debt of $21,221, ranking in the 62nd percentile nationally and $1,221 above the peer median of $20,000. Debt levels range from $7,334 at the 25th percentile to $26,873 at the 75th percentile, indicating variation in borrowing patterns across students.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.33 indicates manageable repayment burden, with annual debt service representing approximately one-third of first-year earnings. Parent PLUS borrowers carry median debt of $23,003, requiring monthly payments of $303.
The modest difference from peer debt levels suggests Oregon State University maintains typical borrowing patterns for large public research universities. Combined with median earnings of $64,010, the debt levels support sustainable post-graduation financial management.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
Oregon State University graduates earn $64,010 ten years after enrollment, placing in the 79th percentile nationally and $3,467 above peer institutions. However, earnings fall $7,245 below expectations based on student demographics, ranking in the 25th percentile for value-added performance.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.33 indicates manageable financial obligations relative to income potential. Combined with net costs $3,978 below peer institutions, Oregon State University provides favorable return on investment despite modest value-added performance.
The institution's strength lies in absolute earnings levels rather than demographic-adjusted performance. Students benefit from strong engineering and computer science programs that drive overall earnings outcomes.
Oregon State University serves 22.4% Pell-eligible students, indicating moderate enrollment of lower-income students typical for public research universities with open access admission. The substantial $10,358 difference between sticker price and average net cost demonstrates active financial aid distribution across income levels.
Aid concentration benefits lower-income families most significantly, with families earning under $30,000 paying $13,219 compared to $26,447 for highest-income families. The progressive aid structure supports educational access while generating revenue from families with greater payment capacity.
Oregon State University's net price positioning $3,978 below peer institutions indicates competitive financial aid effectiveness relative to similar public research universities. This aid profile supports the institution's role in providing accessible higher education while maintaining quality academic programs and strong post-graduation outcomes.
