Paying for college is a big decision, and we want you to go in with eyes open. After grants and scholarships, the average CSI student's estimated costs come to around $4,250 a semester. If you live at home, your actual out-of-pocket cost is likely lower than that. Here's how to figure out what it would actually cost you.
The best way to understand your cost is to run your own numbers. The Net Price Calculator gives you a personalized estimate based on your situation. It takes about 10 minutes.
The Cost of Attendance (COA) is an estimate of your total yearly cost for school. It includes more than just tuition: the cost of housing, food, transportation, books, and everyday expenses.
This is not your final price!
Most students receive financial aid that lowers what they actually pay. To get that aid, you’ll fill out a free form called the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). That’s how CSI determines what grants and scholarships you may qualify for.
Once financial aid is applied, most students pay less than the full estimated cost. At CSI, the average student paid about $4,250 per semester after grants and scholarships (2022–23). That’s roughly half of the total estimated cost.
Your actual cost may be higher or lower depending on your situation. Use the Personal Cost Estimate tool (Net Price Calculator) to see your number.
Most students use a combination of financial aid and scholarships to reduce what they pay. Here are some of the most common options:
These estimates assume you are a full-time student (12+ credits per semester) during the fall and spring terms. What you actually spend will depend on your situation: where you live, how you get to campus, and your day-to-day expenses. Tuition and fees are subject to change.
Example: You live with your parent(s) or guardian and do not pay full rent.
| Category | In State | Out of State |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Costs | ||
| Tuition and Fees | $3,528 | $7,008 |
| Indirect Costs | ||
| Books & Supplies | $1,060 | $1,060 |
| Housing | $1,742 | $1,742 |
| Food | $2,519 | $2,519 |
| Transportation | $3,006 | $3,006 |
| Personal Expenses | $1,606 | $1,606 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $13,461 | $16,941 |
These are estimated yearly costs. Actual costs may vary by student. Some programs may require additional tools, supplies, or fees.
Example: you live in the CSI dorms or share a CSI apartment with a roommate.
| Category | In State | Out of State |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Costs | ||
| Tuition and Fees | $3,528 | $7,008 |
| Indirect Costs | ||
| Housing | $2,600 | $2,600 |
| Food | $4,290 | $4,290 |
| Transportation | $3,006 | $3,006 |
| Personal Expenses | $2,733 | $2,733 |
| Books & Supplies | $1,060 | $1,060 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $17,217 | $20,697 |
These are estimated yearly costs. Actual costs may vary by student. Some programs may require additional tools, supplies, or fees.
Example: You live in your own place (apartment, rental, etc.) and are responsible for your own housing costs.
| Category | In State | Out of State |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Costs | ||
| Tuition and Fees | $3,528 | $7,008 |
| Indirect Costs | ||
| Housing | $6,934 | $6,934 |
| Food | $3,045 | $3,045 |
| Transportation | $3,006 | $3,006 |
| Personal Expenses | $3,300 | $3,300 |
| Books & Supplies | $1,060 | $1,060 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $20,873 | $24,353 |
These are estimated yearly costs. Actual costs may vary by student. Some programs may require additional tools, supplies, or fees.
See your real number first: The Net Price Calculator takes 10 minutes and shows you a personalized cost estimate before you commit to anything. Get your personal estimate
Apply for financial aid — it's free: The FAFSA is how CSI determines what grants and scholarships you qualify for. You might be surprised. Start your FAFSA
Don't skip the scholarship application: One form puts you in consideration for 300+ scholarships based on your background, your goals, and your situation, not just grades. Apply for CSI scholarships
Veteran or military-connected? Use the VA Shopping Sheet to compare your aid and expected costs side by side. View VA Shopping Sheet