Room and Board
Financial term in the Education category
Definition
The combined cost of housing and meal plans at a college or university, which is a significant portion of the overall cost of attendance. Room and board costs vary depending on whether you live on campus, off campus, or at home, and the type of meal plan you select. Many colleges require first-year students to live on campus and purchase a meal plan.
Related Terms
Cost of Attendance
The total estimated cost of attending a college for one year, including tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, transportation, and personal expenses. Colleges use the cost of attendance to determine your financial need by subtracting your Expected Family Contribution. Understanding the full cost of attendance helps you compare colleges more accurately beyond just their listed tuition prices.
Tuition
The amount of money charged by a school for instruction and academic services, which varies widely between public and private institutions and between in-state and out-of-state students at public colleges. Tuition is typically the largest component of the cost of attendance and has been rising faster than inflation for decades. Financial aid, scholarships, and 529 plans can all be used to help cover tuition costs.
529 Plan
A tax-advantaged savings plan designed to help families save for future education expenses, sponsored by states, state agencies, or educational institutions. Contributions grow tax-free, and withdrawals are also tax-free when used for qualified education expenses like tuition, books, and room and board. Many states also offer a state income tax deduction or credit for contributions to their 529 plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Room and Board?
The combined cost of housing and meal plans at a college or university, which is a significant portion of the overall cost of attendance. Room and board costs vary depending on whether you live on campus, off campus, or at home, and the type of meal plan you select. Many colleges require first-year students to live on campus and purchase a meal plan.
Why is Room and Board important in personal finance?
Room and Board is an important education concept that helps individuals make better financial decisions. Understanding Room and Board can improve your financial planning and help you achieve your money goals.
How does Room and Board relate to Cost of Attendance?
Room and Board and Cost of Attendance are related financial concepts. The total estimated cost of attending a college for one year, including tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, transportation, and personal expenses. Colleges use the cost of attendance to determine your financial need by subtracting your Expected Family Contribution. Understanding the full cost of attendance helps you compare colleges more accurately beyond just their listed tuition prices.
More Education Terms
View all Education termsGet Personalized Advice
Ask Warren AI how Room and Board applies to your specific financial situation.
Try Warren Free