Western Connecticut State University's published cost of attendance reaches $24,534 per year, including $16,095 in out-of-state tuition, $15,131 for room and board, and $1,300 for books and supplies. Connecticut residents pay $12,763 in in-state tuition, creating significant savings for state residents.
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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) | $24,877 |
| Tuition and Fees | $16,901 |
| Room and Board | $15,659 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,200 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$7,273 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $17,604 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $13,507 |
| $30–48k | $13,716 |
| $48–75k | $16,697 |
| $75–110k | $18,737 |
| $110k+ | $21,318 |
Western Connecticut State University's published cost of attendance reaches $24,534 per year, including $16,095 in out-of-state tuition, $15,131 for room and board, and $1,300 for books and supplies. Connecticut residents pay $12,763 in in-state tuition, creating significant savings for state residents. However, the average student pays just $18,617 after financial aid, representing savings of $5,917 from the sticker price.
This net price of $18,617 exceeds the peer median by $4,524, indicating that Western Connecticut State University costs more than typical institutions serving similar populations. The gap between published costs and actual net price demonstrates meaningful financial aid distribution, though students should expect costs above regional averages. Net prices vary substantially by family income, ranging from $17,055 for the lowest-income families to $22,946 for the highest earners.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
Western Connecticut State University graduates carry median debt of $24,147, with debt levels ranging from $6,808 at the 25th percentile to $27,000 at the 75th percentile. This debt level ranks at the 41st percentile nationally, placing it around typical levels for four-year institutions.
Compared to peer institutions serving similar populations, Western Connecticut State University graduates carry $3,042 less debt than the peer median of $21,105, indicating more controlled borrowing than expected. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.41 suggests that graduates can manage loan payments relative to their $59,115 median earnings, though this ratio approaches levels requiring careful financial planning.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
Western Connecticut State University demonstrates solid return on educational investment through earnings that exceed expectations relative to costs and debt. Graduates earn $6,139 beyond expectations compared to similar students, placing the university at the 77.4th percentile for this uplift measure.
With median earnings of $59,115 exceeding peer institutions by $8,999, graduates achieve stronger economic outcomes than typical for institutions serving similar student populations. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.41 indicates manageable borrowing relative to income potential, though students should plan carefully for loan repayment.
Compared to peer median debt of $21,105, Western Connecticut State University graduates carry $3,042 less debt while earning $8,999 more annually, creating favorable conditions for long-term financial stability. The combination of controlled debt levels and earnings that surpass expectations for student demographics positions Western Connecticut State University as delivering meaningful value, particularly for students from diverse economic backgrounds seeking upward mobility through higher education.
Western Connecticut State University enrolls 34.6% Pell-eligible students, indicating that more than one-third of students qualify for federal need-based aid. The $5,917 average financial aid savings reduces the $24,534 sticker price to the $18,617 net price most families actually pay.
Aid distribution shows interesting patterns across income levels, with middle-low income families receiving more generous support than the very lowest earners. This aid structure suggests the university targets support broadly across income levels rather than concentrating exclusively on the most disadvantaged students.
The substantial Pell share indicates that many students receive additional federal grant aid beyond institutional support. Students should expect financial aid offices to work with families across income spectrums, though the net price exceeding peer institutions suggests that aid may not fully offset higher base costs.
Parent PLUS loans average $18,367 with monthly payments of approximately $242, adding to family financial obligations. The debt distribution shows that most students borrow substantial amounts, with three-quarters carrying at least $6,808 in loans.
