Out-of-state colleges are significantly more expensive than going to a school in your home state.
There are a few factors to consider in deciding if it is worth it:
The first factor is cost. According to the College Board, the average cost of tuition for the 2021-22 school year is $10,740 for state residents at a public university and $27,560 for out-of-state residents (Source: Trends in College Pricing and Student Aid 2021).
The second factor is comfort. The transition from high school to college is a big one and being in a completely new city without a support system can be a daunting change. As a family, you should discuss how your student reacted to other changes in their life, such as switching to a new school or moving to a new town. Some will easily do well, while others will not. It is important to be honest with yourself as to what your real comfort level will be.
The third factor is your area of study. The expense may be worth it if you have a specialized area of study that is only available at an out-of-state school, or if a specific university’s program is exceptional.
Is Out-of-State Tuition Worth It?
