What is the cost of attendance at UCF?

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By Kristy Tolley

The Cost of Attendance at UCF

When it comes to choosing a college, one of the first things to consider is the cost of attendance. At the University of Central Florida (UCF), the cost of attendance includes tuition and fees, room and board, textbooks and supplies, transportation, health care, and personal expenses. Understanding these costs is important for budgeting and planning for college life.

Tuition and Fees: How Much Will You Pay?

Tuition and fees at UCF vary depending on a student’s residency status and course load. For the 2021-2022 academic year, Florida residents can expect to pay $212.28 per credit hour for undergraduate courses, while non-residents pay $748.89 per credit hour. Full-time undergraduate students taking 12-18 credit hours will pay a flat rate of $3,154.92 per semester for Florida residents and $11,221.88 for non-residents. Graduate tuition rates are higher, with Florida residents paying $369.19 per credit hour and non-residents paying $1,194.95 per credit hour.

Room and Board: The Cost of Living on Campus

Living on campus is convenient, but it comes with a cost. UCF offers a variety of housing options, ranging from traditional dorms to apartment-style living. For the 2021-2022 academic year, the cost of living in a traditional double-occupancy room ranges from $2,974 to $3,798 per semester, depending on the dorm. Meal plans are also required for students living on campus, with prices ranging from $1,553 to $2,343 per semester.

Textbooks and Supplies: Additional Costs

Textbooks and supplies can add up quickly, especially for students taking multiple courses. The cost of textbooks varies depending on the course and professor, but students can expect to spend an average of $500-$1,000 per semester. To save money, students can rent or buy used textbooks, or use digital versions. In addition to textbooks, students may need to purchase lab coats, art supplies, or other course-specific materials.

Transportation: Getting Around Campus and Beyond

UCF has a large campus, and students may need to get around quickly and easily. The UCF Shuttle offers free transportation around campus, and the Lynx bus system connects the campus to the surrounding areas. Students can also bring their own cars, but parking permits are required and can cost up to $400 per year.

Health Care: Insurance and Medical Expenses

UCF requires all students to have health insurance, and offers a Student Health Insurance Plan for those who do not have coverage. The cost of the plan for the 2021-2022 academic year is $2,099 per year, or $699 per semester. In addition to insurance, students may need to pay for medical expenses such as doctor visits or prescriptions.

Personal Expenses: Budgeting for College Life

College life comes with additional expenses such as clothing, entertainment, and personal care items. These costs can vary widely depending on the student’s lifestyle, but students should budget for at least $1,500 per year.

Financial Aid: Scholarships, Grants, and Loans

UCF offers a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans. Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, talent, or need, and do not need to be repaid. Grants are based on financial need and also do not need to be repaid. Loans are available, but should only be considered as a last resort.

Work-Study: Earning Money While Attending UCF

Work-study programs offer students the opportunity to earn money while attending UCF. These jobs are typically on campus and may be related to the student’s field of study. The amount a student can earn depends on the program and the student’s financial need.

Payment Options: How to Cover Your Costs

UCF offers several payment options, including payment plans, financial aid, and scholarships. Payment plans allow students to pay their tuition and fees in installments, while financial aid and scholarships can help cover the cost of attendance. Students can also apply for outside scholarships and grants.

Comparison with Other Florida Universities

When comparing UCF to other Florida universities, the cost of attendance is similar. However, UCF offers a strong academic program, a large and diverse student body, and numerous extracurricular activities.

Conclusion: Is UCF Worth the Cost?

The cost of attendance at UCF may seem daunting, but the university offers many resources to help students cover their costs. With a strong academic program, a diverse and inclusive student body, and numerous opportunities for extracurricular activities, UCF is worth the investment in your future. Students should carefully consider their budget and financial aid options, and work to find ways to make college life affordable and enjoyable.

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Kristy Tolley

Kristy Tolley, an accomplished editor at TravelAsker, boasts a rich background in travel content creation. Before TravelAsker, she led editorial efforts at Red Ventures Puerto Rico, shaping content for Platea English. Kristy's extensive two-decade career spans writing and editing travel topics, from destinations to road trips. Her passion for travel and storytelling inspire readers to embark on their own journeys.

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