Cost, Aid & Scholarships
Invest in yourself
To make the best decision about how to invest in your future, you need trusted and transparent information about how to pay for your education. That's why we make costs clear and financial aid easy to understand and access.
Ask an expert
Financial aid advisors are available to assist you in person, by phone or virtually.
Cost estimates
Tuition and fees
Tuition covers the cost of your classes. To estimate your tuition, we use 15 credits per semester, the average you would need to take to reach the minimum 120 credits required for a four-year degree. We also have one student service fee that is charged each semester.
All U.S. residents pay in-state tuition no matter what state you call home.
Tuition is based on lower-level and upper-level credit hours.
All students are automatically considered for our merit-based scholarships just by applying to CMU.
Eligible Michigan students attend CMU tuition-free through the CMU Tuition Advantage program.
Housing and food
We've calculated housing and food costs using our standard room, selected by most incoming students, and a meal plan. Keep in mind these expenses will differ if you choose a premium room or if you're eligible to live off-campus.
Think you want more space? This number can be tailored to you, your needs and your financial situation. Our housing page lists all options to find your best fit.
* The total estimated cost for incoming CMU undergraduate students in the 2025-2026 academic year is based on 15 lower-level credits per semester, a standard residence hall and a meal plan. Rates may change. To see the full estimated cost of attendance used for financial aid budgets, check out our Cost of Attendance page.
Terms and definitions
Return on investment
Research confirms that earning a college degree remains one of the smartest investments you can make. A Central Michigan degree brings even more value because you’ll earn experience to jumpstart your career before you graduate.
94.9%
of CMU grads are employed, continuing their education or are engaged in volunteer service within six months of graduation.
26%
higher median earnings for CMU grads two years after graduation compared to the national median.
Scholarship information
Scholarships are a big part of financial aid and your overall college decision-making process. Learn how our scholarship options help put students like you on the path to your Central Michigan degree!
Cost and affordability resources
- Affordability strategies - practical ideas and actions to save you money at CMU.
- Cost of attendance - the estimated total cost of attending CMU for one year.
- Net Price Calculator - input your financial info to generate a more precise estimate of the price of your education.
- Types of financial aid - learn about grants, loans, scholarships, and other options to reduce college costs.