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86.0%Acceptance
$10,896Tuition
8,065Students
48%Grad Rate (6-yr)
$50,220Earnings
Public4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalResearch UniversityNCAA Division IStudy AbroadData: 2023-24

Cost Details

In-State Tuition
$10,896
Out-of-State Tuition
$21,480
Average Net Price
$7,168
Students Receiving Financial Aid
23.6%
Room & Board (On Campus)
$11,660
Room & Board (Off Campus)
$11,660
Books & Supplies
$800
Total Cost of Attendance
$23,356
Median Debt at Graduation
$23,000
Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
$244/mo
Loan Repayment Rate
54.7%
Students Taking Federal Loans
30.9%
Pell Grant Recipients
23.6%

Net Price by Family Income

Average annual net price after grants and scholarships. Source: U.S. Department of Education

Net price by family income bracket
Family Income Average Net Price
$0 – $30,000 $1,813
$30,001 – $48,000 $3,022
$48,001 – $75,000 $6,638
$75,001 – $110,000 $11,227
$110,001+ $13,270

Cost Estimator

Family Income
Residency
Housing

Cost Overview

Most families pay far less than Northern Kentucky's $23,356 sticker price. The average net cost drops to $7,168 after aid. Low-income families earning under $30,000 pay just $1,813 annually, while those making $30,000-$48,000 pay $3,022. Even middle-class families earning $75,000-$110,000 face only $11,227 per year. Over four years, that ranges from $7,252 to $44,908 depending on family income.

NKU graduates carry a manageable $23,000 in median debt, translating to $244 monthly payments. With median earnings hitting $50,220 ten years out, that debt burden stays reasonable. The university keeps costs accessible through a strong in-state focus, with 66% of students from Kentucky. Low-income students get the best deal here, attending for free after federal aid covers most expenses. Middle-class families also find solid value compared to private alternatives.

Official Net Price Calculator

Get a personalized cost estimate from Northern Kentucky University:

Visit Official Net Price Calculator

This links to the school's federally-required net price calculator for a personalized estimate.