Tuition is the fee a school charges for instruction. It covers teaching, facilities, and sometimes technology and library access. It does not usually include housing, meals, books, or travel. Those add thousands more to the total cost.

Tuition varies enormously. Public universities charge less for in-state students. Private colleges charge more but often offer discounts. Community colleges are cheaper still. In some countries, tuition is free or heavily subsidized. In others, students pay most of the cost.

Rising tuition has outpaced inflation for decades in the United States. Students borrow more, work longer hours, or take fewer classes. Some choose cheaper schools. Others skip college altogether. The cost debate is now central to politics and policy.

Common terms

• In-state vs. out-of-state
• Sticker price vs. net price
• Tuition freeze
• Tuition waivers
• Cost of attendance