Cost of Education
The college budget (also referred to as the Cost of Attendance or Cost of Education) includes all costs associated with attending a particular higher education institution. This means direct expenses such as tuition and fees. It also includes living expenses such as housing and food (room & board), transportation, books, supplies, and other personal expenses.
Each school determines its own college budget. Your eligibility for financial aid can change, from school to school, based upon the differing college budgets. For example, at a low cost institution, you will have less need for financial aid than at a high cost institution.