The actual cost of a WSU education
The “sticker price” for Washington residents in 2026-27 is $38,700 at WSU. Most students and families pay less. In some cases, a lot less.
WSU Student Costs (the “sticker price”)
| total (est. in-state, undergraduate, 2026-27) | $38,700 |
| tuition and fees | $14,270 |
| room and board (for Pullman only) | $19,846 |
| books, misc. living expenses, transportation | $4,584 |
Est. out-of-state undergraduate annual cost is $56,348
Here’s how to find the actual cost for WSU.
Subtract scholarships, grants and waivers that don’t need to be repaid.
-
36%
of WSU students pay no tuition -
$12,107
Average gift award for WSU students at graduation (2024) -
68%
of WSU students receive a grant or scholarship that doesn’t need to be repaid -
$180M
approximate total in gift aid, which doesn’t need to be paid back, given to students
Scholarships are based not only on academic achievement, but also on academic interests, talent, financial need, leadership, career ambitions, and campus involvement.
Cougar Commitment
This special program covers tuition and mandatory fees for Washington residents from a low- or middle-income family in Washington that receive the Washington College Grant or a Pell Grant.
There are some other qualifications, but to be eligible for the Cougar Commitment, you must be a Washington state resident pursuing your first bachelor’s degree and file your financial aid form (FAFSA or WASFA).
Figure out what loans are needed
About 35% of incoming WSU students take out a loan, for an average of $7,804.
The facts about student loans at WSU:
-
$21,926
Average loan debt for WSU student at graduation in 2024 -
56%
WSU students who graduated with zero loan debt (2024) -
$29,374
National average debt per student (2023)
Determine your financial aid estimate
Use the WSU net price estimator tool to find out how much aid you could qualify for.
The actual net cost varies for each student and family, based on merit, need levels, and other eligibility criteria.
-
83%
of WSU students receive financial aid (about $309 million in 2024) -
68%
of WSU students receive scholarships and/or grants
Average financial aid package for incoming students in 2024: $11,881
How to navigate financial aid, including forms like FAFSA and WASFA.
Earn while you learn
Internships and work-study opportunities provide income and build your resume, while they reduce the net cost of attendance.
Many WSU students get hands-on educational and research experience that also comes with financial support.
Average net price: $18,171
In-state cost by household income
| Household income | Average cost after aid |
|---|---|
| Less than $30,000 | $7,074 |
| $30,001–48,000 | $8,971 |
| $48,001–75,000 | $11,519 |
| $75,001–110,000 | $18,426 |
| More than $110,001 | $24,726 |
Future success with a WSU degree
Most WSU graduates achieve real benefits and clear paths to their goals.
Median earnings for WSU alumni ten years after graduation is $68,905. Compare that to the national midpoint of $53,747 for all four-year colleges. (College Scorecard, US Department of Education, 2025)
College graduates earn 68% more, on average, than workers with only high school diplomas. Overall, the numbers show an excellent return on investment for most college degrees.
One of the most active alumni associations in the country also offers personal and career support to new grads. It’s often said—because it’s true—that Cougs help Cougs. Check out the WSU Alumni Association’s Cougs Connect program.
Investing in a WSU education also gives you
- A well-rounded education
- Expert and current knowledge in academic fields that are applicable to the work force
- Personal and professional connections to world-class faculty who can boost post-college plans
- Friendships for life
Ready to join the Coug family?
What now?