Rhode Island College's published cost of attendance reaches $18,490 annually for in-state students, including $10,986 in tuition, $13,719 for room and board, and $1,200 for books and supplies. Out-of-state students face tuition of $26,519, bringing their total attendance cost significantly higher.
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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) | $17,454 |
| Tuition and Fees | $27,299 |
| Room and Board | $13,414 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,200 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$7,976 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $9,478 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $6,378 |
| $30–48k | $6,989 |
| $48–75k | $8,701 |
| $75–110k | $12,809 |
| $110k+ | $15,681 |
Rhode Island College's published cost of attendance reaches $18,490 annually for in-state students, including $10,986 in tuition, $13,719 for room and board, and $1,200 for books and supplies. Out-of-state students face tuition of $26,519, bringing their total attendance cost significantly higher. However, the average student pays just $10,988 after financial aid, representing savings of $7,502 compared to the sticker price.
This average net price falls $3,105 below the peer median of $14,093, making Rhode Island College substantially more affordable than similar public institutions. The difference between published and actual costs demonstrates the impact of federal and state financial aid programs, which reduce expenses for most students. Net price varies considerably by family income level, ranging from $7,674 for families earning under $30,000 to $16,800 for those 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.
Rhode Island College graduates carry a median debt load of $20,500, which falls $605 below the peer median of $21,105 and ranks at the 66th percentile nationally. Debt levels range from $5,500 at the 25th percentile to $25,000 at the 75th percentile, indicating controlled borrowing across the student population.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36 means that typical graduates carry debt equivalent to about 36% of their first-year post-graduation earnings, representing a manageable burden relative to income potential. Parent PLUS borrowers carry a median debt of $13,410 with monthly payments of $177, though this represents supplementary family borrowing rather than core student financing.
The below-peer debt levels combined with above-peer earnings create favorable conditions for post-graduation financial stability. Most graduates can expect debt payments that align with typical post-graduation income levels, supporting sustainable repayment without compromising other financial goals.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
Rhode Island College delivers strong return on educational investment through the combination of controlled costs, manageable debt, and solid earnings outcomes. Graduates earn $7,471 beyond expectations compared to similar students elsewhere, ranking at the 80.9th percentile for earnings uplift nationally.
This well above average performance indicates that the educational experience generates meaningful economic value relative to student backgrounds and institutional characteristics. The median debt of $20,500 paired with median earnings of $56,318 creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36, supporting manageable repayment timelines and financial stability.
Compared to peer institutions, Rhode Island College graduates earn $6,202 more annually while carrying $605 less debt, representing a favorable combination for long-term financial health. The net price advantage of $3,105 below peer median provides additional value, reducing total educational costs while maintaining outcome quality.
Rhode Island College enrolls 41.5% Pell-eligible students, substantially above the national average and reflecting the institution's commitment to serving lower-income populations. The $7,502 average financial aid savings reduces costs by 40.6% compared to the sticker price, with aid concentrated toward students with the greatest financial need.
The progressive net price structure demonstrates effective need-based aid distribution, with families earning under $48,000 receiving the most substantial support. Federal Pell grants, state aid programs, and institutional assistance combine to create affordable pathways for students from diverse economic backgrounds.
The aid profile supports the college's role as an Opportunity Builder institution, where financial barriers are reduced to enable educational access. Students from moderate-income families also receive meaningful aid, with net prices remaining manageable even in higher income brackets.
