State University of New York at Cortland maintains a published cost of attendance of $26,413 annually, consisting of $18,725 in out-of-state tuition ($8,815 for in-state residents), $15,210 for room and board, and $1,200 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays significantly less after financial aid.
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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) | $28,108 |
| Tuition and Fees | $18,784 |
| Room and Board | $15,560 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,200 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$5,763 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $22,345 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $12,550 |
| $30–48k | $16,453 |
| $48–75k | $20,102 |
| $75–110k | $21,636 |
| $110k+ | $25,853 |
State University of New York at Cortland maintains a published cost of attendance of $26,413 annually, consisting of $18,725 in out-of-state tuition ($8,815 for in-state residents), $15,210 for room and board, and $1,200 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays significantly less after financial aid. The average net price across all income levels is $19,951, representing $6,462 in financial aid savings from the sticker price.
This net price is $5,858 higher than the peer median of $14,093, indicating that State University of New York at Cortland costs more than comparable institutions. The higher net price reflects the university's positioning as a quality public institution with above-average outcomes, though families should carefully evaluate the cost-benefit relationship. Financial aid targeting helps lower-income families access the institution, with substantial price reductions based on family income levels.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
Student debt levels at State University of New York at Cortland remain manageable relative to post-graduation earnings. Median student debt reaches $21,500, essentially matching the peer median of $21,105 with only a $395 difference.
Debt ranges from $7,500 at the 25th percentile to $26,613 at the 75th percentile, showing that borrowing varies considerably among students. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36 indicates that median debt represents approximately one-third of first-year post-graduation earnings, a manageable proportion that supports long-term financial stability.
Parent PLUS borrowing adds $20,264 in median debt with monthly payments of $267 for families who use these federal loans. The combination of moderate student debt and above-peer earnings creates favorable conditions for loan repayment.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
State University of New York at Cortland delivers solid return on educational investment despite higher costs than peer institutions. Graduates earn $60,236 ten years after enrollment, ranking at the 72nd percentile nationally and $10,120 above the peer median of $50,116.
This earnings premium helps justify the $5,858 higher net price compared to peer institutions. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36 indicates that educational debt remains manageable relative to income potential, supporting long-term financial sustainability.
Earnings beyond expectations of $1,119, ranking at the 60.4th percentile, demonstrates that the university adds measurable value beyond what student characteristics alone would predict. The return on investment ranks around the national average at the 53rd percentile, reflecting solid but not exceptional value delivery.
State University of New York at Cortland's financial aid approach prioritizes need-based assistance while maintaining net prices above typical peer institutions. The $6,462 average financial aid savings reduces costs meaningfully but represents less generous aid than peer institutions that achieve $14,093 median net prices.
With 26.9% Pell-eligible enrollment, the university serves a substantial population of lower-income students who benefit from federal and institutional aid programs. The progressive net price structure ensures that families with the greatest financial constraints receive the most substantial aid, with low-income families paying $11,272 compared to $23,422 for high-income families.
This approach aligns with the university's Opportunity Builders designation, reflecting commitment to access alongside quality outcomes. Financial aid effectiveness supports the enrollment of diverse student populations while maintaining fiscal sustainability.
