
800 S. Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22807, USA


The cost of attending James Madison University reflects a mix of low tuition and high fees for both in-state and out-of-state students. Full-time in-state undergraduate tuition stands at $7,914 per year, which is relatively affordable and ranked in the bottom 20% nationally. However, the mandatory undergraduate fees are considerably higher at $5,662 annually, placing them in the top 5% for expense levels. Out-of-state undergraduate tuition is higher at $25,128 per year, which is considered average and aligns with costs experienced by many public universities.
Graduate tuition for full-time in-state students is $11,856, ranked around the bottom 40% for affordability, while fees average $1,224. Out-of-state graduate students pay $29,304 in tuition, categorized as high cost nationally, with fees similar to in-state levels.
The combined tuition and fees for undergraduate students at James Madison University total around $14,300, a figure situated in the lower 25% of national comparisons, indicating overall affordability in regards to academic expenses alone. Room and board charges are approximately $14,368 annually, with the housing cost marked as average and the meal plan fees considered high compared to other institutions. This housing and dining cost collectively places the university near the middle of national price ranges.
When combining tuition, fees, room, and board, the estimated total annual cost to study at James Madison University reaches close to $28,668. This total situates the university just above the national average for in-state students at four-year public colleges, which is $25,707. It remains significantly lower than the average cost for out-of-state students at similarly public four-year institutions, reported at $44,014, and well below private non-profit four-year colleges, where the average exceeds $54,000.
James Madison University offers a variety of work-study opportunities designed to help students earn income while gaining valuable experience. On-campus employment is readily available across different departments, providing roles that range from administrative support to positions in dining services and campus facilities. These jobs offer flexible hours tailored to accommodate students' class schedules.
The university also encourages students to pursue internships that complement their academic studies, allowing them to develop professional skills in real-world environments. These internships may be paid or unpaid, depending on the department and the nature of the work involved.
Federal work-study programs are accessible to eligible students, enabling them to earn money to offset educational expenses. Typically, the average compensation falls within a range that reflects standard federal guidelines, but specific wage details are managed individually by each department.
International students enrolled at James Madison University have access to on-campus work opportunities; however, their eligibility for federal work-study programs may be restricted due to visa regulations. Nonetheless, these students can seek alternative employment options within the campus that comply with international student employment policies.
Typical room charge for academic year
$7,244Typical board charge for academic year
$7,124Institution provide on-campus housing
Data not availableInstitution provides board or meal plan
YesAny alternative tuition plans offered by institution
Data not availableTuition guaranteed plan
NoPrepaid tuition plan
NoUndergraduate average amount
$4,311All
$4,456Undergraduate average amount
$10,172Graduate average amount
$9,031Students awarded Title IV federal financial aid (2023-2024)
Average net price (income 30,001-48,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19
$12,172Average net price (income 48,001-75,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19
$17,150Average net price (income 75,001-110,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19
$23,171Average net price (income over 110,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19
$28,869