What does the term “Estimated Cost of Attendance” mean?

The Estimated Cost of Attendance (COA) is the average cost for the average student to attend school and support themselves for the given enrollment period. The COA will give you an idea of how much a student can expect to spend for a specific period of time. All COAs include tuition, which is set, as well as living expenses, which can vary based on a student’s lifestyle choices. Living expenses included are room (rent), board (food), transportation, books, fees, miscellaneous expenses, as well as all necessary insurances. The COA is also the maximum amount of aid a student can receive for the identified enrollment period.