While attending college, students must pay for educational expenses as well as living costs. Educational expenses account for 18-25% of the cost of attendance. The cost of attending college, as calculated by each university and community college, is used to determine a student's financial need and eligibility for financial aid.
The cost of attendance varies among universities and community colleges. Some of this variance is caused by institutional differences in the methods used to calculate living costs. Different methods are used most often in calculating transportation and personal expenses. Regional differences in living costs, particularly room and board, also contribute to the varying costs.
Since 1994-95, the cost of attendance for Florida students has increased 5% - 10% (after adjusting for inflation). This increase is due to higher tuition and fees, as well as higher room and board costs.
Florida's cost of attendance is higher than the national average for state universities, yet Florida ranks below the national average in tuition and fees. Florida ranks below the national average in tuition and fees at community colleges.

Legislature Increases FRAG Awards; Residency Determination Rules Improved
Report 06-57 August 2006
The State Has Several Options Available When Considering the Funding of Higher Education
Report 04-54 August 2004
Stronger Financial Incentives Could Encourage Students to Graduate With Fewer Excess Hours
Report 04-44 June 2004
Florida Universities' Tuition and Fees Slightly Below Peers, But All Costs Consume a Higher Percentage of Family Median Income
Report 04-12 February 2004

Copies of this report in print or alternate accessible format may be obtained by email OPPAGA@oppaga.fl.gov, telephone (850) 488-0021, or mail 111 W. Madison St., Room 312 Tallahassee, FL 32399-1475.