Texas State University's published cost of attendance is $26,348 per year, including $23,210 in out-of-state tuition ($11,450 for Texas residents), $12,270 for room and board, and $740 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays just $16,438 after financial aid, representing savings of $9,910 through various aid programs.
Select your family income to see your estimated cost
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) | $26,348 |
| Tuition and Fees | $23,210 |
| Room and Board | $12,270 |
| Books and Supplies | $740 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$9,910 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $16,438 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $12,144 |
| $30–48k | $12,576 |
| $48–75k | $16,117 |
| $75–110k | $21,528 |
| $110k+ | $23,150 |
Texas State University's published cost of attendance is $26,348 per year, including $23,210 in out-of-state tuition ($11,450 for Texas residents), $12,270 for room and board, and $740 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays just $16,438 after financial aid, representing savings of $9,910 through various aid programs. This net price positions Texas State $848 below the peer median of $15,590, making it more affordable than typical public universities of similar size and scope.
The university's financial aid approach creates significant cost reductions for students across all income levels, with particularly substantial support for lower-income families. Texas State's affordability index ranks at the 68.8th percentile nationally, above average, reflecting the institution's commitment to accessible higher education. The combination of moderate sticker prices and meaningful financial aid results in net costs that support the university's mission of serving diverse student populations, including substantial numbers of Pell-eligible and first-generation students who benefit most from affordable pricing structures.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
Texas State University graduates carry a median debt of $21,000, ranking at the 63rd percentile nationally and comparable to the peer median of $20,000. Student debt ranges from $5,679 at the 25th percentile to $24,994 at the 75th percentile, showing most students graduate with manageable debt levels.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37 indicates debt remains reasonable relative to post-graduation income, as graduates earn $56,906 ten years after enrollment. Parent PLUS borrowers carry a median debt of $17,400 with monthly payments of approximately $229, though this represents additional family borrowing beyond student debt levels.
The combination of moderate debt levels and steady post-graduation earnings creates favorable conditions for loan repayment and long-term financial stability. Debt levels only $1,000 above peer medians, combined with the university's strong mobility outcomes, indicate students can achieve meaningful economic advancement without excessive borrowing.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
Texas State University delivers solid long-term value through the combination of accessible costs, manageable debt, and meaningful career outcomes. While graduates earn $1,068 below expectations relative to student demographics, this represents around the national average for value-added performance and occurs alongside significantly lower debt and broader accessibility than more selective institutions.
The median earnings of $56,906 rank at the 63rd percentile nationally, indicating above-average post-graduation income levels. Debt levels remain manageable at $21,000, only $1,000 above peer medians, resulting in a favorable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37.
The university's mobility index ranking at the 98.7th percentile—among the highest nationally—demonstrates exceptional ability to advance students economically regardless of background. This combination positions Texas State as a strong investment for students seeking affordable access to meaningful career preparation.
Texas State University enrolls 36.1% Pell-eligible students, indicating more than one-third of students qualify for federal need-based aid—above the national average for public institutions. The $9,910 difference between sticker price and average net price demonstrates substantial financial aid impact across the student body.
Net prices by income level show progressive aid distribution, with the lowest-income families receiving the most significant cost reductions. This aid structure enables the university to serve its diverse student population while maintaining accessibility for first-generation and economically disadvantaged students.
The financial aid profile directly supports Texas State's Mobility Engine designation, providing the affordability foundation necessary for students from lower-income backgrounds to access higher education and achieve economic advancement. The substantial financial aid savings make the university particularly attractive to Texas families seeking quality education at manageable costs, especially those who might otherwise find higher education financially out of reach.
