Understanding Pima Community College Tuition Costs
Deciding on a college is a big decision, and understanding the costs involved is a crucial part of the process. This article breaks down the tuition costs at Pima Community College, comparing them to national, state, and regional averages to help prospective students determine affordability.
Pima Community College Tuition and Fees: An Overview
Pima County Community College District publishes its tuition and fees for one year of attendance, not including room and board. It is important to note that the numbers quoted are all sticker price and don't include any financial aid or scholarships students may qualify for.
For the 2020-2021 academic year, Pima Community College charged different rates for in-state and out-of-state students. In-state undergraduates benefited from a significant discount. Here's a breakdown:
- Out-of-State Tuition & Fees: In 2020-2021, the average out-of-state tuition and fees at Pima Community College ran about $7,566 per year for students working on an undergraduate degree, comprised of $7,404 for tuition and $162 for fees.
- In-State Tuition & Fees: In-state undergraduates received a discount for tuition and fees at the school and only had to pay $2,250 per year, including $2,088 for tuition and $162 for fees.
How Pima Community College Compares Nationally
Nationwide, out-of-state students pay, on average, $19,933 per year in tuition and fees to attend college. With an average cost of $7,566 in tuition and fees for undergraduate students, Pima Community College is inexpensive when compared to the national average.
In-state undergrads in Arizona pay an average of $16,784 for tuition and fees. Undergraduates who hail from Arizona pay an average of $2,250 a year to attend Pima County Community College District, making the school a bargain if you only consider tuition and fees alone.
Read also: Affording Pima Medical Institute
Regional and Statewide Comparisons
When evaluating affordability, it's helpful to consider regional and statewide averages. Pima Community College generally positions itself as an inexpensive option within the Southwest region and the state of Arizona, for both in-state and out-of-state students.
Projected Tuition Increases
It's essential to consider potential tuition increases when planning for college costs. Tuition and Fees for in-state Pima Community College increased with an average annual rate of 1.66% over the past five years. This school year, in-state students can expect to pay $2,325 if the growth keeps up.
At this rate, the total cost of in-state tuition and fees for two years at Pima County Community College District is estimated to be $4,689, and $9,536 for four years.
Tuition and fees for out-of-state students have grown by about 0.48% in the past five years. This school year, students outside of the state will pay an estimated $7,639.
This means an estimated $15,315 for two years of out-of-state tuition and fees at Pima County Community College District, and $30,777 for four years.
Read also: PCC Success Stories
Understanding the Cost of Attendance (COA)
The Cost of Attendance (COA) is determined annually by the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships using the Consumer Price Index. It estimates the average costs a student may pay while attending college each academic year (fall and spring semesters). Indirect costs are costs associated with living, such as room and board, personal expenses and transportation. It is not possible to build all the different combinations of costs for the academic year. The figures are estimated and based on regular in-state and non-resident costs.
Additional Expenses to Consider
Beyond tuition and fees, students should budget for other expenses. Here's a look at some typical costs:
- Books and Supplies: $1,920 per year
- Personal Expenses: $3,234 per year
Financial Aid Opportunities
Remember to also consider financial aid when trying to decide if you can afford to go to a particular school. Financial aid can include grants, loans, scholarships and work-study jobs. Financial aid packages vary depending on your financial need. Most colleges determine financial need based on your FAFSA.
At Pima Community College, 43 percent of undergraduates receive grant or scholarship aid and the average scholarship or grant award is $4,068.
The average aid package awarded is $6,267. Scholarships and grants don’t need to be paid back. Loans must be paid back.
Read also: Navigating Pima Scholarships
The average net price is $3,523 per year. Your net price is a college’s cost of attendance minus the grants and scholarships you receive. The net price you pay for a particular college is specific to you because it’s based on your personal circumstances and the college’s financial aid policies. Use the college’s Net Price calculator for the most accurate estimate of your net price.
Key Facts About Pima Community College
Pima Community College is located in a city with a total enrollment of 15,544. The school utilizes a semester-based academic year. The student-faculty ratio is 16-to-1. The highest degree offered at Pima Community College is an associate degree. The school has an open admissions policy and offers credit for life experiences. There is no application fee. Students can earn degrees and certificates in 118 different fields. Popular programs include: Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies, Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse, and Business/Commerce, General.
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