Understanding College Costs
Your Cost of Attendance (COA) is an estimate of what it may cost to attend Mississippi State University for one academic year. It includes both the costs billed by the university and estimated living expenses while you're enrolled. The COA is established in accordance with federal guidelines and is used to determine your eligibility for financial aid.
What is Cost of Attendance?
Cost of Attendance is made up of direct costs and indirect costs.
Direct Costs
Direct costs are charges that may appear on your Mississippi State University student account.
Examples include:
- Tuition
- Required fees
- University housing
- Meal plan
Indirect Costs
Indirect costs are estimated expenses that are not billed by the university but help estimate the total cost of attending college.
Examples include:
- Books and supplies
- Transportation
- Personal expenses
- Off-campus living expenses
The COA is an estimate and may not reflect a student's actual expenses. Individual costs will vary based on residency status, enrollment status, housing arrangements, and personal spending.
Enrolled hours over 16 are assessed additional overload tuition and non-resident fee (if applicable) at the prevailing per-credit-hour cost. Capital Improvement and Student Activity Fees are capped at the per semester cost. Tuition and Fee Information
The Bulldog Book Bundle can be either a direct or indirect cost. Undergraduate students are automatically enrolled, making it a direct cost, but if they opt out, book expenses become an indirect cost as they must purchase materials separately. Learn More About Bulldog Bundle
Why Does Cost of Attendance Matter?
Your Cost of Attendance (COA) sets the maximum amount of financial aid you may receive for an academic year. Your total financial aid package, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study, cannot exceed your established COA.
View Cost of Attendance by Campus
Select your campus below to view your estimated yearly Cost of Attendance.
Fall 2026 and Spring 2027
Starkville Main Campus COA Meridian Campus COA MGCCC Campus COA
Summer 2026
Summer 2026 COA - MSN, Physician Assistant, and VetMed
You may be subject to pay other fees that are determined by your course of study, student status, or application for admission. Additional costs are listed below.
Additional Costs to Consider
Some students may have additional expenses depending on their academic program or personal choices.
Required Costs
These costs may apply depending on your courses or degree program.
- Course Materials
- Laboratory Fees
- Distance Fees
- Program Fees
- College Fees
- Overload Tuition
Optional Costs
These expenses are not required to attend Mississippi State University but may be part of your college experience.
- New Maroon Camp
- Athletic Tickets
- Greek Life
- Intramural Fees
- Campus Concerts
- Campus Parking