Total cost of attendance is established on an individual basis, but certain figures do not vary from one student to another. The amount that we use for Tuition is based on actual charges. Transportation to and from campus is also included in the total cost of attendance. This figure does vary from one student to the next, and is based on two round trip tickets from the student's permanent address. If the student lives within driving distance, it is based on gas mileage.
Many students also have an allowance for loan origination fees included in their budget.
This is due to a major educational initiative that began in 1997 to improve and expand the University's programs, facilities and student services. It was decided that those students who had entered Northwestern under a lower tuition rate would be allowed to complete their studies at this lower rate, while new students, who would more directly benefit from the educational initiative, would be subject to the higher rate. However, financial aid funding has increased proportionately, so that appropriate assistance continues to be available to all eligible students regardless of the differing rates. Once the student's cost of attendance has been established, the next step is to evaluate the level of the family contribution. Aid application materials are carefully examined, including any special circumstances there noted, and a parental contribution is determined using both federal and institutional needs analysis formulae.