What does college cost?
Free tuition programs: A growing trend
Emory, Wake Forest, and Ohio State lead the way
In a bold move toward equity, Emory University and Wake Forest University announced tuition-free programs for families with incomes under $200,000, and Ohio State announced under $100,000.
These initiatives signal a growing recognition that financial barriers should not limit access to higher education. For many women, especially those returning to school or supporting families, this shift could be life-changing. It’s a reminder that education is not just a privilege, but a pathway to empowerment.
For women in Southwest Washington considering college, understanding costs is crucial. Whether you're looking at Clark College in Vancouver, Lower Columbia College in Longview, or Washington State University Vancouver, knowing what you'll actually pay—and what resources exist—determines whether education feels possible or out of reach.
So, what does college cost?
The true cost of college includes tuition, fees, housing, books, supplies, living expenses, and food. On average, attending a four-year institution costs $29,910 per year. The same institution for an out-of-state student comes in around $49,080.
Public vs. private institutions
Want to attend a private college? It’s more. Way more. Fifty percent more.
Free tuition at private universities presents an incredible opportunity . . . for those who qualify. And if your determined, mine their financial aid section for every possible funding resource.
Is college a reality?
For some students, not going to college can cost as little as not having that last $200.
That means for college-bound students in southwest Washington, early financial planning and access to scholarships are mission-critical. That’s why we’re here, “bringing more to women’s lives.” And, we’re providing you with a road map on how to apply for a Woman of Wonder scholarship.
How Woman of Wonder helps local women afford college
Local options like Clark College and Lower Columbia College offer more affordable pathways than four-year universities, with average tuition under $5,000 per year for full-time students. Combined with Woman of Wonder scholarships ($1,500-$2,200) and federal financial aid, college becomes achievable for more women in our region. Woman of Wonder scholarships for Southwest Washington women are here to help bridge that gap between 'I can't afford it' and 'I'm enrolled.
Our mission is simple: remove financial obstacles that keep women from going to college.
Our mission continues beyond free tuition
Should our local community ever shift to a free college system, Woman of Wonder will still have plenty to do. Equal pay and leadership opportunities come quickly to mind as things that could use a little championing.
If college was free, what would you want us to focus on?
Contemplating college costs