Southern Illinois University-Carbondale's published cost of attendance is $29,268 per year, including $13,244 in tuition, $12,114 for room and board, and $1,100 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays just $16,177 after financial aid, representing savings of $13,091 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) | $29,268 |
| Tuition and Fees | $13,244 |
| Room and Board | $12,114 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,100 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$13,091 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $16,177 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $12,928 |
| $30–48k | $12,082 |
| $48–75k | $13,206 |
| $75–110k | $22,819 |
| $110k+ | $23,582 |
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale's published cost of attendance is $29,268 per year, including $13,244 in tuition, $12,114 for room and board, and $1,100 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays just $16,177 after financial aid, representing savings of $13,091 from the sticker price. This net price is $2,084 higher than the peer median of $14,093, indicating Southern Illinois University-Carbondale costs somewhat more than similar public institutions.
The financial aid system provides substantial support, covering nearly 45% of total costs on average. Net prices vary significantly by family income, ranging from $12,928 for families earning under $30,000 to $23,582 for those earning over $110,000. This progressive pricing structure ensures that lower-income students receive the most significant financial assistance.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
Median student debt at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale is $21,543, slightly below the peer median of $21,105 but ranking at the 58th percentile nationally. Debt levels range from $6,538 at the 25th percentile to $26,500 at the 75th percentile, showing most students graduate with moderate debt loads.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.40 indicates that typical graduates can expect annual student loan payments equivalent to about 40% of their first-year earnings, which is manageable for most career paths. Compared to peer institutions, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale students graduate with $438 less debt on average, suggesting effective cost control and financial aid targeting.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale delivers $3,826 in earnings beyond expectations, ranking at the 70.3rd percentile nationally for value-added performance. This indicates graduates earn more than predicted based on student demographics and institutional characteristics.
With median earnings of $53,390 compared to peer median earnings of $50,116, graduates earn $3,274 more annually than typical graduates from similar institutions. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.40 suggests sustainable borrowing relative to income potential, as annual loan payments represent a manageable portion of graduate incomes.
Return on investment ranks around the national average at the 53rd percentile, reflecting solid but not exceptional long-term financial returns. The combination of above-expected earnings and below-peer debt levels creates favorable conditions for post-graduation financial stability.
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale enrolls 36.6% Pell-eligible students, indicating substantial enrollment of students from families earning under $50,000 annually. This Pell share is above average for public institutions, reflecting the university's commitment to serving lower-income populations.
The $13,091 average financial aid savings represents nearly 45% of the total cost of attendance, demonstrating significant institutional investment in affordability. Net price variation by income shows the aid system works progressively, with families earning under $30,000 paying less than half what families earning over $110,000 pay.
The financial aid profile supports the university's Mobility Engine designation, as substantial aid enables access for students who achieve strong post-graduation outcomes. Aid concentration toward lower-income students aligns with the university's mission to serve first-generation and Pell-eligible populations.
Parent PLUS debt averages $16,445 with monthly payments of $217, representing additional family borrowing beyond student loans. The debt distribution shows that one-quarter of students graduate with minimal debt under $6,538, while another quarter carry debt above $26,500.
