Here's a breakdown:
* Tuition: This is the fee you pay directly to the institution for instruction. It covers the cost of classes, lectures, access to professors, and sometimes library access.
* Cost of Attendance (COA): This is a much larger figure that encompasses everything needed to attend the school for one academic year. It typically includes:
* Tuition: As mentioned above.
* Fees: These are additional charges beyond tuition, like student activity fees, technology fees, or lab fees.
* Room and Board: The cost of housing (dorm, apartment, etc.) and meals.
* Books and Supplies: The cost of textbooks, notebooks, and other materials needed for classes.
* Transportation: Costs associated with getting to and from campus.
* Personal Expenses: Money for clothing, entertainment, and other personal needs.
Therefore, the COA is always greater than the tuition cost. The difference represents the living expenses and other necessary costs associated with being a student.