Some students will spend more than the typical amounts, others less, depending on individual lifestyles and circumstances. A student's eligibility for financial aid, however, will be based not on individual preferences and spending habits, but on the standard budget allowances. The amount for books and supplies is an estimate, and personal expenses represent reasonable allowances for the nine-month academic year. The allowances for food, housing, personal expenses and transportation costs are higher for graduate and professional students, on the assumption that these students must make different living arrangements to accommodate more intensive academic responsibilities. Students in Health Affairs programs will pay different amounts based on the specific course of study.
All costs are subject to change before the school year begins.
Students who have costs not included in the standard budgets, such as expenses related to child care, a physical disability, or special family circumstances, should itemize and explain these costs in a letter to the Office of Scholarships and Student Aid. In some cases and on an individual basis, additional expenses can be added to standard budgets in determining the amount of aid the student may be eligible to receive.