* Financial aid: Yale is known for its generous financial aid program, meaning many students receive significant grants and scholarships that drastically reduce the actual cost. Need-blind admission means financial need doesn't affect admission decisions.
* Living expenses: Room and board costs vary depending on housing choices. Students choosing to live off-campus will have different expenses.
* Personal spending: This includes books, supplies, travel, entertainment, and other personal expenses, which vary greatly depending on individual lifestyle.
Therefore, while Yale publishes a cost of attendance figure that includes tuition, fees, room, and board, it's only a starting point. The published cost is significantly higher than what many students actually pay.
To get a realistic estimate of the cost for a *specific* student, you'd need to:
1. Look at Yale's official website: They publish their tuition and fees, room and board rates, and an estimated cost of attendance. This will give you a high-end figure.
2. Use the net price calculator: Yale, like most universities, offers a net price calculator on their financial aid website. This tool allows you to input your family's financial information and receive a personalized estimate of your expected cost after financial aid.
In short, while the *sticker price* is very high, many students attend Yale with significantly reduced costs thanks to substantial financial aid. You must consult Yale's financial aid resources for a personalized estimate.