Understanding Marshall University's Out-of-State Tuition Costs
Marshall University, a public institution located in Huntington, West Virginia, has been serving students since its founding in 1837. As of fall 2024, the university boasts a total undergraduate enrollment of 9,146 students and operates on a semester-based academic calendar with a student-faculty ratio of 16:1. While offering a variety of programs and opportunities, the cost of attendance, particularly for out-of-state students, is a significant consideration.
Current Tuition and Fees
For the academic year, Marshall University's in-state tuition and fees are $9,388, while out-of-state tuition and fees amount to $20,390. When compared to the national average, Marshall University's in-state tuition is cheaper than the national average cost of $12,422. Similarly, the out-of-state tuition is cheaper than the national average of $29,767. These figures represent the sticker price, which includes fees that support various campus services such as library access, gym facilities, student centers, technology resources, and health centers.
Total Cost of Attendance
When planning for college expenses, it's crucial to consider the total cost of attendance, which includes not only tuition and fees but also the cost of food and housing, books and supplies, transportation, and personal expenses. At Marshall University, the total cost for in-state students is $27,170, while for out-of-state students, it rises to $38,350.
Recent Tuition Increases
Like many universities, Marshall University has seen recent increases in tuition and other costs. The Board of Governors approved a 2.5% increase, which impacts tuition, housing, dining costs, capital, and auxiliary fees. While administrators justify the increase due to inflation and the uncertain financial landscape, students have expressed mixed reactions. Some students worry about the added financial burden, with one junior noting that the increase "is a car payment to some people and that can make a big difference just surviving through the semester, especially for college students."
The university estimates that each percent increase generates approximately $950,000 in revenue, resulting in nearly $2 million based on current enrollment. As a result of these increases, departments at the university will face a 4% reduction in their budgets for the upcoming year.
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Financial Aid and Net Price
It's important to note that the actual amount a student pays can vary significantly based on their family's household income and financial aid received. Approximately 69% of students at Marshall University receive financial aid, with an average aid package of $15,274. Financial aid can come in the form of grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study jobs.
The net price, which is the cost of attendance minus grants and scholarships, provides a more accurate picture of what a student will actually pay. For the 2025-2026 school year, the projected average net price at Marshall University is $10,841. However, this figure varies depending on income bracket:
- Less than $30K: $5,368
- $30K - $48K: $6,205
- $48K - $75K: $8,876
- $75K - $110K: $13,635
- Over $110K: $17,258
Historical Tuition Trends
Examining historical data provides context to tuition trends at Marshall University. Here's a breakdown of in-state and out-of-state sticker prices, along with net in-state prices, over the years:
| Year | Net In-State Price | In-State Sticker Price | Out-of-State Sticker Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025-26 | $10,841 | $26,666 | $38,701 |
| 2024-25 | $10,558 | $25,971 | $37,659 |
| 2023-24 | $10,283 | $25,294 | $36,646 |
| 2022-23 | $9,734 | $23,944 | $34,998 |
| 2021-22 | $8,756 | $23,323 | $34,377 |
| 2020-21 | $8,730 | $22,543 | $33,397 |
| 2019-20 | $8,387 | $22,443 | $33,297 |
| 2018-19 | $8,508 | $21,969 | $32,455 |
| 2017-18 | $8,850 | $21,390 | $31,448 |
| 2016-17 | $9,057 | $20,726 | $29,954 |
| 2015-16 | $9,037 | $20,094 | $28,882 |
| 2014-15 | $9,240 | $19,520 | $28,020 |
| 2013-14 | $8,738 | $18,916 | $27,146 |
This data indicates a consistent upward trend in both sticker prices and net prices over the past decade.
Graduation and Retention Rates
Beyond tuition costs, prospective students often consider graduation and retention rates as indicators of a school's success. At Marshall University, 50% of students earn their bachelor's degree within six years of enrolling. The university also demonstrates a student retention rate of 75% for full-time students, meaning that most students return for their sophomore year.
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Graduation rates vary among different demographic backgrounds. For example, 57% of American Indian/Alaska Native students graduate, while 42% of Black students graduate. These differences highlight the importance of considering demographic-specific data when evaluating a university's success.
Financial Aid Details
For those seeking financial assistance, Marshall University offers various aid options. Approximately 69% of students receive financial aid, and 84% of freshmen with demonstrated need receive financial aid. The average aid package awarded is $15,274, which includes an average need-based scholarship or grant of $8,646 and a need-based loan amount of $6,487. The typical amount of loans a student must pay back at graduation is $25,632.
Initiatives to Reduce Tuition Burden
Recognizing the financial challenges students face, Marshall University has implemented initiatives to alleviate the tuition burden. Marshall announced that it would eliminate tuition costs for in-state students. In addition, Marshall also offers automatic admission to high school graduates from Boone, Clay, Lewis, Logan, Jackson, Kanawha and McDowell counties, announced last August as an effort to reach more first-generation college students in West Virginia. Eligible students are still responsible to cover housing, meals, books and personal costs.
Read also: Marshall University Careers
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