West Virginia University's published cost of attendance is $23,678 per year, including $9,648 in-state tuition, $13,876 for room and board, and $950 for books and supplies. Out-of-state students face tuition of $27,360, raising total costs significantly.
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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) | $26,415 |
| Tuition and Fees | $28,608 |
| Room and Board | $14,582 |
| Books and Supplies | $950 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$10,781 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $15,634 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $9,450 |
| $30–48k | $12,501 |
| $48–75k | $14,179 |
| $75–110k | $18,710 |
| $110k+ | $20,273 |
West Virginia University's published cost of attendance is $23,678 per year, including $9,648 in-state tuition, $13,876 for room and board, and $950 for books and supplies. Out-of-state students face tuition of $27,360, raising total costs significantly. However, the average student pays just $12,997 after financial aid, representing savings of $10,681 from the sticker price.
This net price places West Virginia University $2,593 above the peer median of $15,590, indicating somewhat higher actual costs than similar public research universities. The financial aid system reduces published costs by approximately 45% on average, with more substantial reductions for lower-income students. The gap between sticker price and average net price demonstrates meaningful financial aid distribution, though the premium over peer institutions suggests that cost-conscious students should carefully evaluate aid packages.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
West Virginia University graduates carry median debt of $22,500, placing the institution at the 52nd percentile nationally and $2,500 below the peer median of $25,000. Student debt ranges from $5,500 at the 25th percentile to $26,250 at the 75th percentile, indicating controlled borrowing across most students with some variation based on individual circumstances and program length.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.40 indicates that typical graduates can expect annual loan payments representing approximately 40% of first-year earnings, which falls within manageable ranges for most career paths. Parent PLUS borrowing shows median debt of $25,969 with monthly payments of $342, representing additional family financial commitments beyond student borrowing.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
West Virginia University graduates earn $3,896 below expectations compared to similar student demographics, placing the institution at the 38.5th percentile for earnings uplift. However, median debt of $22,500 falls $2,500 below peer institutions, creating a favorable debt-to-earnings ratio despite modest earnings performance.
The combination of controlled borrowing and consistent earnings across diverse programs supports sustainable loan repayment for most graduates. Earnings growth of 23.8% from six to ten years after graduation demonstrates improving financial prospects as graduates advance in their careers.
The institution ranks among the top 50 nationally for median earnings, indicating solid absolute outcomes even if relative performance is modest. Students should weigh the accessible admission, manageable debt levels, and diverse program portfolio against earnings that trail expectations, recognizing that individual program choice and career development significantly influence long-term financial outcomes.
West Virginia University's financial aid system delivers meaningful cost reductions across income levels, with the most substantial support directed toward lower-income students. The $10,681 average savings from sticker price indicates broad-based aid distribution, though the 20.4% Pell share suggests that many middle-income students also receive assistance.
The progressive pricing structure reflects institutional priorities in making education accessible across diverse economic backgrounds while maintaining revenue from higher-income families. Aid effectiveness creates genuine affordability for lower-income students, with families earning under $30,000 paying just $9,217 annually.
This combination of need-based aid and income-based pricing enables the university to serve diverse populations while maintaining financial sustainability. The aid profile supports the institution's role as a comprehensive public university serving West Virginia and regional populations with varying economic circumstances and educational financing needs.
The combination of controlled student debt levels and moderate earnings creates favorable conditions for loan repayment, particularly as graduates advance in their careers and earnings grow over time. Debt levels below peer institutions suggest effective cost management and aid targeting that limits excessive borrowing while enabling degree completion.
