Washington State University's published cost of attendance reaches $27,176 annually, consisting of $12,997 in-state tuition, $29,073 out-of-state tuition, $13,131 for room and board, and $762 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays significantly less after financial aid, with a net price of $14,401 representing $12,775 in financial aid savings 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) | $27,176 |
| Tuition and Fees | $29,073 |
| Room and Board | $13,131 |
| Books and Supplies | $762 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$12,775 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $14,401 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $7,147 |
| $30–48k | $8,723 |
| $48–75k | $12,308 |
| $75–110k | $19,445 |
| $110k+ | $24,472 |
Washington State University's published cost of attendance reaches $27,176 annually, consisting of $12,997 in-state tuition, $29,073 out-of-state tuition, $13,131 for room and board, and $762 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays significantly less after financial aid, with a net price of $14,401 representing $12,775 in financial aid savings from the sticker price. This net price falls slightly above the peer median of $15,590, placing WSU in the moderate range for public research universities.
The financial aid system demonstrates progressive pricing, with net costs ranging from $7,147 for the lowest-income families to $24,472 for the highest-income bracket, a spread of $17,325 that reflects substantial aid targeting toward students with the greatest financial need. For Washington residents, the in-state tuition advantage provides additional affordability compared to out-of-state students, though financial aid helps moderate costs across all income levels. Students should expect meaningful financial aid that reduces actual costs well below published prices, particularly for families earning under $75,000 annually.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
Washington State University graduates carry median debt of $19,500, exactly matching the peer median and placing WSU at the 72nd percentile nationally for manageable borrowing levels. Debt levels range from $6,500 at the 25th percentile to $25,000 at the 75th percentile, indicating that most students graduate with moderate debt burdens.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.28 suggests sustainable borrowing, with annual debt payments representing roughly 28% of first-year earnings, well within recommended guidelines for educational debt management. Parent PLUS borrowers carry median debt of $23,817 with monthly payments of $314, providing additional financing options for families seeking to support their students' education.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
Washington State University delivers strong return on educational investment through the combination of above-average earnings and moderate debt levels. Graduates earn $3,320 beyond expectations based on student demographics, placing WSU at the 69th percentile nationally for value-added performance.
With median earnings of $68,905 ranking at the 85th percentile nationally, WSU graduates significantly outperform typical four-year college outcomes. The institution produces earnings $8,362 above the peer median while maintaining debt levels exactly at peer standards, creating a favorable investment profile.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.28 indicates sustainable borrowing that supports rather than hinders post-graduation financial progress. Strong performance in STEM fields, with Computer Science graduates earning $93,485 and Engineering graduates exceeding $83,000, demonstrates particular value for students in high-demand technical fields.
Washington State University enrolls 25.6% Pell-eligible students, indicating substantial service to lower-income families who qualify for federal grants. The average financial aid savings of $12,775 represents nearly half of the total cost of attendance, demonstrating significant institutional commitment to affordability.
The progressive net price structure shows aid concentration among students with annual family incomes below $75,000, who receive the most substantial price reductions. This aid targeting aligns with WSU's role as a public research university serving diverse populations, including 34.1% first-generation students who often come from families with limited college financing experience.
The financial aid approach supports the institution's Opportunity Builder mission by making higher education accessible to students across the economic spectrum while maintaining quality academic programs and career outcomes.
The combination of moderate student debt levels and above-average earnings creates favorable conditions for post-graduation financial stability. With median earnings of $68,905, graduates can expect to manage their debt obligations while building careers and achieving economic independence.
