Understanding Your Costs

A crisp fall day on Salem State's Central Campus with a sunset view of Viking Hall

Cost of Attendance

The cost of your education and final bill depends on several factors, some of which you may not even expect. Some common terms related to your costs are explained here. 

Common college costs include more than tuition, food, and housing. Examples of additional costs are listed in the chart below.

For more information on tuition, fees, housing, and meal plans, visit the following:

ItemDescription
TuitionThe cost of taking courses
Fees

Examples include, and not limited to: 

  • university fees
  • course fees
  • activity fees
  • and parking fees
Food and HousingYour housing and meal plan costs if you live on campus.
Books and School Supplies

Books can be expensive. School supplies include

  • book bags
  • notebooks
  • pens and pencils
  • paper and computer paper
  • desk accessories such as folders, trays, and pen holders.
Equipment and Room Materials

This category might include

  • a computer and printer
  • reading lamps
  • a microwave and refrigerator and
  • sheets, towels, etc.
Travel and Miscellaneous Expenses
  • If you commute to school, include transportation costs.
  • If you live on campus, include travel during school breaks.
  • You may also want to include clothing and mobile phone costs.


What is Cost of Attendance?

Cost of Attendance (COA) is an estimate of what it will reasonably cost a student to attend Salem State for a full academic year. Keep in mind that the cost of attendance isn’t the price a student will pay to attend school; that’s known as the net price (out-of-pocket costs).

If a student is enrolled at least half-time, the COA includes the following: 

  • tuition and fees
  • books, course materials, supplies, and equipment;
  • cost of housing and food (or living expenses);
  • transportation expenses;
  • loan fees (excluding any loan fees for non-federal student loans);
  • miscellaneous expenses (including a reasonable amount for the documented cost of a personal computer);
  • allowance for childcare or other dependent care;
  • costs related to a disability;
  • costs of obtaining a license, certification, or a first professional credential; and
  • reasonable costs for eligible study abroad programs.

What is Net Price?

Net price is an estimate of the out-of-pocket costs that a student must pay for their education expenses in one academic year. It is the cost of attendance minus any grants and scholarships a student receives. 

The Net Price Calculator

The Net Price Calculator provides estimated net prices for current and prospective students and their families, based on what similar students paid in the prior year after grants and scholarships were applied. It does not include Federal Direct Loans for which a student may be eligible.

The estimate you receive applies only to full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduate students. It does not constitute a final decision or an official award of financial aid, nor does it indicate a final net price. Cost of attendance and financial aid availability may change each year. 

Federal Financial Aid Estimator

Students can use the Federal Student Aid Estimator before completing the FAFSA to understand their college financing options and receive an early estimate of how much federal student aid they may be eligible for.

Salem State Undergraduate Estimated Tuition Worksheet

Students can use the Undergraduate Estimated Tuition Worksheet to estimate their annual undergraduate tuition at Salem State. Reviewing the yearly details on tuition and fees is also a great way to understand what the final bill might be.

For information on billing and payment options, please visit the following:

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