Room and Board
What Is Room and Board?
Room and board refers to the cost of housing and meals provided by a college or university.
Room typically covers on-campus housing or dormitory costs.
Board refers to meal plans or dining services.
Room and board are included in a school’s Cost of Attendance calculation.
Why It Matters
Room and board:
- Represents a significant portion of total college costs
- Affects overall financial aid eligibility
- Varies by housing choice and location
Living on campus often increases total expenses compared to living at home.
Understanding these costs helps families budget realistically.
How Room and Board Works
Room and board charges are assessed per academic term.
Example: A university may charge $10,000 annually for on-campus housing and meal plans combined.
Students living off campus may receive a different estimated allowance as part of Cost of Attendance.
Financial aid may cover room and board, but funds are typically applied after tuition and fees.
Room and Board vs. Tuition
Room and Board → Housing and meals
Tuition → Instructional cost
Both are components of total college expense.
FAQs About Room and Board
Is room and board required?
Some institutions require first-year students to live on campus.
Can aid cover off-campus housing?
Aid may include allowances for off-campus living.
Does meal plan choice affect cost?
Different meal plans carry different pricing.
Related Terms
