At $4,812/yr net price, American Samoa Community College graduates earn $30,087/yr within 10 years of enrollment.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $4,812 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $19,248 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $30,087/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | $-3,913/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 47.7% |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $4,879/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $3,811/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $4,989/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $4,439/yr |
| $110,001+ | $8,560/yr |
The Risk Factor
47.7% of students at American Samoa Community College graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
American Samoa Community College offers an extremely low-cost education at $4,812 per year, but the financial returns are weak with median earnings of just $30,087 ten years after enrollment. The 47.7% graduation rate means more than half of students leave without completing their programs, adding significant financial risk to an already modest earnings outlook.
The college's location in American Samoa creates unique financial challenges. Limited local job opportunities mean many graduates must relocate to find work that justifies their investment, adding moving costs and leaving behind family support networks. The median earnings figure likely reflects the territory's lower cost of living, but this advantage disappears if you move to the mainland United States for better career prospects.
You should consider this school primarily if you plan to stay in American Samoa long-term and value the cultural connection over maximum earning potential. The low net price makes financial risk manageable, especially with 67% of students receiving aid. However, if your goal is career advancement or higher earnings, mainland community colleges or four-year institutions will likely provide better returns despite higher upfront costs.
The college works best for students seeking affordable local education who understand they're trading earning potential for proximity to home and lower debt. If you need higher income to support family or have significant career ambitions, look elsewhere. The combination of low completion rates and limited regional opportunities creates too much risk for students who can access other options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is American Samoa Community College worth the cost?
With a net price of $4,812 per year and graduates earning $30,087 annually after 10 years, American Samoa Community College offers relatively affordable education. However, the 48% graduation rate means over half of students don't complete their programs.
What is the return on investment for American Samoa Community College?
Graduates earn about $30,000 annually 10 years after enrollment, which is low compared to mainland community colleges. The low cost helps offset weak earning potential, but career prospects remain limited.
Do American Samoa Community College graduates struggle with debt?
The annual cost of $4,812 keeps debt levels manageable compared to four-year institutions. Most students can complete programs without taking on significant loans.
Which programs at American Samoa Community College have the best job prospects?
Nursing and health-related programs typically offer the strongest employment opportunities in American Samoa's limited job market. Business and education programs may require relocation to the mainland for better career options.