
370 Lighty Student Services Building PO Box 641067, Pullman, WA 99164, USA


Washington State University offers relatively affordable tuition for full-time in-state undergraduate students, charging $10,976 per year, which is considered low compared to other institutions and falls within the bottom 25th percentile nationally. Additionally, mandatory fees for these students amount to $2,021, a figure categorized as average and ranking in the top 35%. For out-of-state undergraduates attending full time, tuition considerably increases to $27,052 annually, reflecting an average cost level and placing the university in the lower half of national tuition prices for this group. Fees for out-of-state students remain consistent at $2,021.
Graduate students face higher tuition costs. In-state graduate tuition stands at $12,675 per year, rated as average and in the bottom 40th percentile, while out-of-state graduate tuition is significantly higher at $27,842, putting Washington State University in the top 30% for costliness among similar institutions. Graduate fees are $1,725 across the board, which is slightly higher in comparison to undergraduate fees.
Part-time students pay hourly charges that vary by residency and level, with rates such as $578 per credit hour for in-state undergraduates and $1,382 for out-of-state undergraduates, both reflecting average cost levels. Graduate part-time credit rates are slightly higher, especially for out-of-state students, where hourly charges reach $1,422 and are ranked among the top 20% for expense.
Living expenses add a notable portion to the overall cost. Room and board at Washington State University cost approximately $14,428 annually. The on-campus room charge specifically is $9,398, considered average and ranking in the top 40%, while board costs are $5,030, which is low and near the bottom 25%. The university maintains substantial dormitory capacity with 6,634 beds, an exceptionally high level in the top 5% nationally, and offers both on-campus housing and meal plans to students.
Books and supplies also contribute to expenses but remain relatively low, averaging around $762 per year, placing Washington State University in the bottom 20% cost-wise for these items.
When comparing total annual costs, Washington State University's sum of tuition, fees, room, and board stands significantly below many other institutions. In-state tuition and fees combined total around $13,888 per year, with room and board adding another $14,428. This leads to an overall cost notably lower than the national average for in-state students at four-year public colleges, which is $25,707, and considerably less than out-of-state totals, typically around $44,014. This affordability factor may be an essential consideration for prospective students evaluating both academic value and cost of living.
Washington State University offers a variety of work-study positions aimed at supporting students financially while complementing their academic schedules. These opportunities include both on-campus jobs and internships that provide practical experience in diverse fields. Students engaged in work-study roles can expect compensation that aligns with federal or university standards, helping to offset tuition and living expenses.
On-campus employment options at Washington State University encompass administrative support, research assistance, and roles within campus facilities, allowing students to work in close proximity to their classes. Internships tied to academic departments also offer valuable hands-on experience, connecting theoretical learning with real-world applications.
Work-study programs at the university are designed primarily for U. S. citizens and eligible non-citizens under federal guidelines. As such, international students typically have limited access to these specific financial aid employment opportunities. However, the university often provides alternative on-campus job options for international students outside the traditional work-study framework, enabling them to gain employment while studying.
Typical room charge for academic year
$9,398Typical board charge for academic year
$5,030Total dormitory capacity
6634Institution provide on-campus housing
YesInstitution provides board or meal plan
YesAny alternative tuition plans offered by institution
Data not availableTuition guaranteed plan
NoPrepaid tuition plan
YesUndergraduate average amount
$11,543All
$10,370Undergraduate average amount
$10,629Graduate average amount
$11,663Students 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
$8,723Average net price (income 48,001-75,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19
$12,308Average net price (income 75,001-110,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19
$19,445Average net price (income over 110,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19
$24,472