Understanding the Cost of Attendance at the College of William & Mary for 2024
The College of William & Mary, a prestigious public research university in Williamsburg, Virginia, is renowned for its academic excellence, historic significance, and vibrant campus community. For prospective students and their families, understanding the cost of attendance (COA) is a critical step in planning for higher education. The COA encompasses not just tuition but also fees, room and board, books, supplies, transportation, and personal expenses. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the estimated costs for the 2024 academic year, along with insights into financial aid, scholarships, and strategies to manage expenses.
Breakdown of the Cost of Attendance for 2024
The COA at William & Mary varies depending on whether a student is an in-state or out-of-state resident, as well as their living arrangements (on-campus, off-campus, or commuting). Here’s a detailed look at the estimated costs:
1. Tuition and Fees
In-State Students:
- Tuition: Approximately $15,000 per year
- Fees: Around $3,500 (includes technology, health, and activity fees)
- Total: ~$18,500
- Tuition: Approximately $15,000 per year
Out-of-State Students:
- Tuition: Approximately $43,000 per year
- Fees: Around $3,500
- Total: ~$46,500
- Tuition: Approximately $43,000 per year
2. Room and Board
On-Campus:
- Housing: 7,000–9,000 (varies by residence hall and meal plan)
- Meal Plan: 5,000–6,500
- Total: ~12,000–15,500
- Housing: 7,000–9,000 (varies by residence hall and meal plan)
Off-Campus:
- Estimated Housing: 8,000–10,000
- Food: 4,000–5,500
- Total: ~12,000–15,500
- Estimated Housing: 8,000–10,000
Commuting:
- Estimated Food: 3,000–4,500
- Total: ~3,000–4,500
- Estimated Food: 3,000–4,500
3. Books and Supplies
- Estimated Cost: 1,200–1,500 per year
4. Personal Expenses
- Estimated Cost: 1,500–2,000 per year
5. Transportation
- Estimated Cost: 800–1,200 per year (varies based on distance and travel frequency)
Financial Aid and Scholarships
William & Mary is committed to making education accessible through a robust financial aid program. Here’s how students can offset the COA:
1. Need-Based Aid
- Federal Pell Grants: Awarded to undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need.
- Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant (VTAG): Available to eligible Virginia residents.
- Institutional Grants: Provided by William & Mary based on financial need.
2. Merit-Based Scholarships
- 1693 Scholars Program: Full tuition, fees, and room and board for exceptional in-state students.
- W&M Scholars Award: Up to full tuition for out-of-state students.
- Departmental Scholarships: Awarded by specific academic departments based on merit.
3. Work-Study Programs
- Federal Work-Study (FWS) provides part-time employment opportunities for students with financial need.
4. Loans
- Federal Direct Loans (subsidized and unsubsidized) and PLUS Loans are available for eligible students and families.
Strategies to Manage Costs
Return on Investment
Despite its cost, William & Mary offers a strong return on investment. Graduates benefit from:
- High Alumni Satisfaction: Ranked among the top universities for alumni satisfaction.
- Strong Career Outcomes: Over 90% of graduates are employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation.
- Prestigious Network: Access to a global network of accomplished alumni.
What is the tuition for in-state students at William & Mary in 2024?
+Tuition for in-state students is approximately $15,000 per year, with total fees around $18,500.
Does William & Mary offer full-ride scholarships?
+Yes, the 1693 Scholars Program offers full tuition, fees, and room and board for exceptional in-state students.
What is the average cost of room and board at William & Mary?
+The average cost of room and board ranges from $12,000 to $15,500 per year, depending on housing and meal plan choices.
How can out-of-state students reduce their tuition costs?
+Out-of-state students can apply for merit-based scholarships like the W&M Scholars Award, which can cover up to full tuition.
What is the deadline to apply for financial aid at William & Mary?
+The priority deadline for financial aid is typically March 1st, but earlier submission is encouraged.
Conclusion
The cost of attendance at the College of William & Mary in 2024 reflects its status as a top-tier institution, offering world-class education and resources. While the costs may seem daunting, the university’s robust financial aid programs, scholarships, and career outcomes make it an accessible and valuable investment. By planning carefully, leveraging aid opportunities, and utilizing campus resources, students can navigate the financial challenges and thrive at William & Mary.
Whether you’re an in-state student seeking affordability or an out-of-state student pursuing excellence, William & Mary provides a pathway to success. Start your journey today by exploring their financial aid options and discovering how this historic institution can shape your future.
