The Value of An IU Education
The Value of An IU Education
- Whether you choose one of our 180-plus majors or create your own, explore all the academic opportunities on campus or study overseas, you’ll get a high-quality education that will prepare you for whatever’s next. IU offers incredible choices and unique opportunities such as living communities, research and service learning that extend learning beyond the classroom and support student success.
- You Can Have the World: IU offers more than 100 programs in 37 countries and nearly 20 languages (including English). More than 1,800 IUB students study abroad every year, making it a top 20 research university for study abroad. IU offers more than 70 foreign languages, including some that aren’t taught at any other American University.
- IU is committed to keeping costs low, value high. Indiana University has been vigilant in implementing strategies in recent years to ensure that we return maximum value to Indiana taxpayers for the support they give us.
- Read what the experts have to say! Kiplinger’s Personal Finance (February 2011) for the 2nd straight year, ranked IU in the top 30 of the “100 Best Values in Public Colleges.”
- Check out the quality of the faculty. Our campus is home to more than 2,000 faculty, internationally recognized for their research and a deep commitment to teaching. With professors like Elinor Ostrom, recently presented with the Nobel Prize in Economics, how can you go wrong?
- Consider the opportunities outside the classroom.With over 700 student organizations, students have any number of ways to gain leadership, connect with others and make the most of their experience.
- Trust the track record. IU has more than 530,000 living graduates worldwide. Over 265,000 IU graduates live in Indiana. More than 50 percent of Indiana's physicians, 40 percent of nurses, 64 percent of optometrists, 35 percent of teachers, 75 percent of lawyers, and 90 percent of dentists are IU graduates. With career services for every area of study and an Alumni Association with over 100 chapters throughout the world, IU is committed to your success every step of the way.
Affordability. Value. Excellence.
Affordability. Value. Excellence.
Choosing a college is an important decision for families, particularly in these current economic times. More and more, families are concerned about the costs associated with college. As a future IU Hoosier exploring your options, you should consider the new knowledge you will gain, the opportunities and support you will discover, and the community of friends you will join.
IU students discover a community where their most idealistic goals can be achieved. We combine the benefit of personal attention for students with the resources of world-renowned schools, cutting edge programs, and an astonishing range of opportunities not only in the classroom, but on campus and even around the world. We take pride in the experience we can provide our students.
At IU, we know that a quality education can be affordable — but it can take some thought and planning. While you explore all that IU has to offer, check out the information on this site. There are countless ways for families to afford an IU education and benefit from its value. Let us help find the right path for you.
Real People. Real Words
Thoughts From Those Who Know
We asked some current students what they do to make ends meet, to save on costs and to manage through the year. Below are their responses and some tips they had to offer:
Polly Pinellii, 
Mychael Spencer, 
Dave Neustadter, 
Eboni Gatlin, 
Wendy Curtis Liebert,
Fred Posniak, 
Polly Pinelli, Student-Senior
Major: Tourism Management
Hometown: Beaverton, OR
The summer after my junior year at IU, I landed an impressive internship with The Hotel Hershey in Hershey, PA. I would consider my internship with The Hotel Hershey one of the most valuable experiences of my undergraduate career. As a managerial intern in the Beverage Department, my supervisors gave me a tremendous amount of responsibility, and by week three I was running the department on my own! Throughout the summer, I managed and scheduled a staff of 25 individuals, completed weekly forecasting, oversaw daily operations in the Iberian Lounge, inspected outlets for adherence to service standards, attended daily meetings, completed banquet billing, and ordered beverages and supplies for all hotel restaurant outlets. Overall, I had a very positive experience with The Hotel, and gained a significant amount of confidence in my abilities as an intern, student, and individual as a whole. Spending time in the field helped me refine my leadership style, and I now have a better idea of what area of the hospitality industry I would like to pursue after graduation.
As a current Tourism Management student, I have found the opportunities for professional growth to be plentiful. I also valued the assistance I received during my internship search - my professors and other faculty members were always willing to proofread my resume, give me advice, and even make calls on my behalf to internship sites where I had applied.
Mychael Spencer, Student-Sophomore
Major: Biology
Hometown: Indianapolis, Indiana
In high school, I was very involved so I knew that I wanted to go to a university that allowed me to do just that. During my first year at Indiana University, I strived to find organizations that would allow me to do what I enjoy, but also broaden my horizon outside of the classroom. I was able to be an usher at the IU Auditorium, a member of the Minority Association of Premedical Students, and a vice president of my resident hall all within that one year. It was very important to me that I got involved as much as I could during my first year so then I could find the organizations that appealed the most to me, and potentially run for leadership positions.
I also decided to apply to be an Orientation Leader for the summer, where I met thousands of incoming students. It was great to be able to offer advice and suggestions to other students so that they could have just as a fulfilling first year experience as I did. Thus far, I have truly had an invaluable and worthwhile experience because of the opportunities that I have been able to take advantage of while being an active student leader here on campus. At Indiana University, you are able to become more than just a “number” and it is apparent that you can make a lasting impact while you are here and after you graduate.
Dave Neustadter, Alumni
Bachelor of Arts, IU Bloomington, 2001
Studio Executive, New Line Cinema
I was not the high school kid who excelled at Calculus or who knew from the age of 14 that I would go Pre Med. Nope. I was a pretty average student. I had a lot of interests but, like a lot of 18 year olds, I had no clue what I wanted to do with the rest of my life. And that's why IU was perfect for me.
I didn't just take “Basic English 101” when I was a freshman. I looked at about 40 options and picked the one that sounded the coolest...which ended up being a class where we would read a classic work of fiction and then watch the movie version. Through IU, I discovered that I had a love for film and I started taking one related course each semester for fun...and ended up getting a minor. Beyond the classroom, I found that the Indiana Memorial Union would show new films for much less than the local Cineplex; I also found a local establishment where I could get a burger and watch indie films in their back room. After college, I moved out to Los Angeles to chase a career in film and I've been working in Feature Development for the last 7 years.
My point? IU is obviously very well known for all the excellent academic programs. But for me, the beauty of my time at IU and in Bloomington was that I discovered my passion through - and because of - my complete college experience. For new students who go to college knowing exactly what they want to be doing in 4 years, I applaud them...and I'm a little jealous. But for the student who is still weighing the many, many options, Indiana University has it all. It's the perfect combination of academic excellence and an unparalleled college experience. GO HOOSIERS.
Eboni Gatlin, Alumna
Producer - Prime News,
HLN - Formerly Headline News
Class of 2006
I graduated from IU in 2006. Since then I have worked for 2 TV news giants, FOX News and HLN – formerly CNN Headline News. I credit my college career with preparing me for the real world and helping me excel in each position. What made my experience so rewarding was my involvement in campus activities and organizations. I was a reporter for the IDS, a Union Board Director, a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., a 21st Century scholar and a Student Manager at the IU Auditorium, just to name a few. These organizations gave me the skills I needed to be successful in the working world. I learned to multi-task, prioritize and lead with confidence. But, most importantly, I gained a sense of community and family, which proved to be my support system throughout my college career.
But I also learned some intangibles that have benefited me greatly. Throughout my time at IU, I learned to accept and embrace different cultures and ideas. In classes, I learned how to question the status-quo, to disagree and then have a respectful debate, yet still understand the value of everyone’s opinion. At IU I learned how to network, how to sell my strengths and downplay my weaknesses. The knowledgeable professors, the variety of campus lectures and never-ending list of available classes made it easy for me to expand my comfort zone and widen my knowledge base.
I could go on and on about the benefits of going to IU. It’s a large campus with an abundance of resources that I was able to make work for me. I was able to find a sense of community, and be actively involved, while earning my degree. It was at IU that I acquired the training to make me a successful journalist, and the life skills to be a successful person.
Wendy Curtis Liebert and daughter Taylor Liebert
Zionsville, Indiana
Last year, my daughter's freshman year, she was welcomed to Indiana University with a wealth of activities and clubs to join. This helped as she learned so much about college life from her peers and the remarkable IU staff. Academically, she was encouraged to form relationships with her instructors and that tip alone has brought out a new confidence in her. I know she would not have received as helpful advice at any other university. Today, she reminds me every day that Indiana University was the right decision and continues to have a wonderful and active college experience.
When my daughter and I started planning on how we would pay for her college education, I was quickly won over by how easy it was to apply and receive financial aid through Indiana University. The only challenge I had was remembering my FAFSA pin number. Once that was committed to memory and we had both familiarized ourselves with the Indiana University OneStart website, I became one grateful parent. The university did it all, applied her financial aid, kept us updated, answered questions when we had them. Not only is my daughter getting a rich college education on a gorgeous campus, but I gained peace of mind. Thanks IU.
Fred Posniak, Parent
Westfield, New Jersey
Parent
Our two daughters, Marissa, and Amanda elected to attend Indiana University, which turned out to be one of the most important and best decisions of their lives. Indiana University has provided an excellent, well-rounded and cost effective education for our children. From the first day of orientation, the faculty, support staff and local people were always supportive, both academically and personally. An added bonus is the campus’ beauty, which is among the best and sought-after in the country. Soon, we will have two IU graduates in the family!
An additional advantage for us of attending Indiana University is the convenience to the east coast which is only a 90 minute plane ride from Newark Airport into Indianapolis, which is easily accessible to the beautiful town of Bloomington. In addition, Bloomington is a wonderful safe area, rich in tradition and beauty.
We were grateful that our girls elected to attend IU, a wise choice in all regards. My wife Karen and I were so impressed with the wonderful area and people we have met at IU over the years that we are now looking for a home in Bloomington!
Go Hoosiers!
Want to See for Yourself?
Sometimes the best way to learn more is to talk it through in person. A visit to campus is a great start! There are many options, including attending events planned by the IU Admissions Office. Come see some of the wonderful options we have through theatre, museums, libraries, athletics and more. Explore the classrooms, academic services and world class programs. Want to talk directly to an alum? We can make that happen, too! Simply follow this link and we’ll connect you with an alum in your area.
Helping you Get to IU
Helping you Get to IU
Tips to help you plan ahead
- Apply for Admission & IU Scholarships! The most important first step to get to IU is to apply for admission. And…by simply applying for admission by November 1, you will automatically be considered for Automatic Academic Scholarships. All application materials for admission must be submitted online or postmarked by November 1 for consideration. To learn more about these and other scholarship opportunities at IU, click here.
- Search for external scholarships. Scholarships are financial assistance that do not require repayment and may be awarded based on merit, financial need, or a combination of both.
- Don’t miss out by missing a deadline. Pay attention and read ahead. Don’t let missing a deadline for a financial aid form be a reason for missing an opportunity.
- Understand your housing options. Housing areas vary in cost — check out all of the options and costs associated with them.
- Have “the talk” with your family. In this case, we mean the talk about money. Have an honest conversation about what you, the student, should be expected to contribute and plan for how you will do that. Will your share be funded through part-time employment? Your own savings? Scholarships or loans? Having those questions agreed to now will be helpful later.
- Practice budgeting yourself. A common success strategy for college students is tracking spending and planning for a budget. Start now to develop good habits.
Breaking Down the College Bill
Breaking Down the College Bill
Helpful Information from CollegeBoard.com
Just what goes into all of your costs? Your total budget includes both billable and indirect costs.
Billable Costs
These are fixed costs, billed to you by the college tuition, fees, room and board.
Indirect Costs
These are the costs that don't show up on your bill from the college: books, supplies, travel, entertainment and other personal expenses such as laundry, telephone, and pizza. You can control your indirect costs somewhat by making smart spending choices.
From there, you can expect Five Basic Cost Components
- Tuition and Fees
These are the costs of your education. While they may vary based on academic program and number of credit hours, this is a cost that is predicable for the academic year. The tuition charge will appear on the bill. - Room and Board
These costs are billed by the college if you live and take meals on campus. The charges are determined by the room and meal plan you choose, but are also announced for the year. If you plan to live off campus, you'll need to make your own estimate of these expenses. - Books and Supplies
This expense covers your course materials and will vary from semester to semester. - Personal Expenses
Keep careful track of these as they can quickly add up. These are costs over which you have more control based on your habits and lifestyle. - Travel / Transportation
This amount will also vary, depending on distance and frequency. Make your own estimates based on how and how often you plan to travel.
IU Cost of Attendance (2011-2012)
IU Cost of Attendance (2011-2012)
So what does it really cost to attend Indiana University? The Office of Student Financial Assistance estimates the cost of attending IU based on residency, enrollment (full or part time status) housing and other factors.
Below is the current cost of attendance (2011-2012) for a full-time undergraduate student. Direct costs are billed to the student through the IU Office of the Bursar. The indirect costs such as books, supplies, travel and other personal expenses are more likely to vary by student choices and lifestyle. These are the areas students can often find strategies to keep costs lower.
| Resident | Non-Resident | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | $9,524 | $29,540 |
| Room & Board * | $8,520 | $8,520 |
| Total Direct Costs | $18,044 | $38,060 |
| Books & Supplies * | $824 | $824 |
| Transportation * | $834 | $834 |
| Personal * | $2,448 | $2,448 |
| Estimated Cost of Attendance | $22,150 | $42,166 |
*These are averages and actual costs can vary by student based on student choice and travel habits.
Variations in total costs at Indiana University can be found in:
- Room and Board Costs: IU campus housing offers a variety of options to students. Your costs will be determined by your specific housing and meal plan choices. For more information about options on campus, review the current RPS Housing Guide.
- Books and Supplies: This cost may vary each semester, based on your class requirements. Consider potential lab fees and other costs specific to your academic program.
- Personal Expenses: This reflects your choices in everything from phone use to entertainment and non-board plan food costs. Review options on and near campus at little to no cost for entertainment.
- Transportation: This may vary between students based on the number of times you travel from campus, and how you travel. Consider your options for sharing rides, traveling less frequently and planning ahead.
Applying for Financial Aid
Applying for Financial Aid
IU’s Office of Student Financial Assistance offers a helpful timeline of financial matters important to students and their families.
The timeline walks you through the steps involved in having the most and best access to aid. It also explains what is included in each of these steps. Stay one step ahead and feel more informed by reviewing the complete timeline online now.
There, you’ll learn about each of these steps:
- Apply
- Make Corrections
- Review Your Financial Aid Award Notification
- Complete Necessary Paperwork
- Accept Federal Work-Study
- Sign Promissory Notes
- Seek Out Additional Funding
- Pay Your Bill, or Look for Your Refund
- Find a Job
From deadlines, to campus codes, to refunds and more—get in the know with the Financial Aid Timeline and Checklist.
You don’t have to figure it out alone! Our Financial Aid Counselors are available to help. Click here to get all of the information you need to call, email, or visit the Office of Student Financial Assistance.
Student Budgeting Tips
Student Budgeting Tips
Tips for saving money on campus
- Academics
- Maximize the flat fee rate. Take more than 12 credit hours but less than 18 credit hours, the tuition cost is the same.
- Follow your curriculum plan. Meet with your academic advisor each semester to make sure you are on track for graduating in the time frame you need.
- Consider buying used books. Local bookstores, and even some online sources, offer used books at a lower price when possible. If you’re concerned about their condition, check out the options at bookstores in person. You can decide how “used” suits you best.
- Campus
- Stick with your prepaid meal plan. Use the money you’ve already paid for meals and keep “eating out” to a minimum.
- Take advantage of free campus activities. From movies on campus, to access to great museums, to recreation, festivals and special events, there is always something that you can do at no cost. It’s also a great chance to meet other students with similar interests. Campus isn’t the only exciting place — be sure to explore Bloomington and the surrounding area, too!
- Make good use of what you’ve already paid for. Review and understand what your fees provide. Health Services. Recreational Sports Facilities. IU and Bloomington buses. Email, technology workshops and even printing those reports and term papers. We could go on and on.
- Social Life
- Look for great deals for students. At IU you have access to world-class music events, Broadway shows and exciting sports. And IU students get discounts and often free access to these events. Look for special IU student rates on everything from computers and software, to restaurants and other local business offering student discounts and deals.
- Keep discretionary spending at a minimum. Create and stick to a budget for items such as clothing, entertainment and electronics.
- Avoid using credit cards. Use cash or a debit card to avoid additional charges. Only use a credit card for emergencies.
- Work part-time. Not only does it give you extra cash, but it can also help you connect in your chosen area of study, and can help you learn time management and other skills.
- Leave car at home. Gas, maintenance and insurance are expensive. So is being the “taxi” for all your friends. IU is a “walking campus” with everything you need nearby. IU and city buses are easy to use and included in your student fees.
Helpful Links
Helpful Links
The financial crisis facing our country has affected many families and their ability to finance a college education this year. Many families are struggling and college payment plans that were realistic last year may no longer be possible. We’re here to help.
We encourage all students to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), regardless of family income.
Helpful Links Confused about the types of aid, the application process, and ways to get started? Below are some links to some great information:
- Need to know the types of Financial Aid out there?
- Just who is eligible for financial aid? (hint: you just might be surprised!)
- Freshman Financial Aid 101 - A great place to start.
- Frequently Asked Financial Aid Questions - Let us help!
- Scholarship Search Engines - Start exploring your options.
- Consumer Information - Know your rights as a consumer.
- IU Office of the Bursar - Billing and payment options are outlined.
- IU Student Employment Opportunities - Experience AND spending money is always a great combination.
- Apply for Admission – IU is the place for you to shine!
- IU On the Road - Find out if we’ll be in your area!
Do You Have A Question?
Do You Have A Question?
Do you have a question about the financial aid process? Select from the following topic areas to find answers to your questions.
Question Categories
Applying for Aid
- What is the application process for financial aid?
- What is the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) and how does it affect financial aid?
- What is the cost of attendance?
- Is there a deadline for completing the FAFSA? If so, can students still receive financial aid after that deadline?
- Must the FAFSA be filed each year?
- Is a student with a high family income able to receive any financial aid from the FAFSA?
- Is completion of the FAFSA required to attend Indiana University?
- How do I account for special conditions in my financial aid?
What are the eligibility requirements?
- What are the eligibility requirements to receive financial aid?
- What is Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)?
- What is Verification?
- Is financial aid available to international students?
- Does living on- or off-campus affect financial aid?
- How is a student’s dependency status determined and can it be changed?
What are Federal Loans?
- What is a Federal Direct Stafford Loan?
- What is the difference between subsidized and unsubsidized loans?
- What other loan options are available to students?
- Does a parent’s denial of a Federal Direct Parent PLUS loan make his/her student eligible for any additional financial aid?
- When does loan repayment begin?
Other Types of financial aid
How to contact our office?
