Living with Parents - Estimated Cost of Attendance
An Affordable Option for Students Living at Home
Living at home while attending Glen Oaks is a smart way to reduce college costs—especially for students just out of high school, dual enrollment participants, or adults supporting families. Below is the estimated cost of attendance for students living with parents during the 2025–26 academic year, based on full-time enrollment.
2025–26 Costs for Students Living with Parents
Each table reflects average annual costs for full-time students based on residency status. These estimates help determine your financial aid eligibility.
In-District Students
Live in St. Joseph County, MI or live in student housing
| Category | Semester | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $1,668.00 | $3,336.00 |
| Fees | $468.00 | $936.00 |
| Books/Supplies | $1,154.00 | $2,308.00 |
| Personal | $1,081.00 | $2,162.00 |
| Transportation | $1,169.00 | $2,338.00 |
| Living Allowance (Room & Board) | $2,062.00 | $4,124.00 |
| Loan Fee | $13.00 | $27.00 |
| Totals | $7,615.00 | $15,231.00 |
Service Area
Live in approved surrounding counties:
Michigan: Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Kalamazoo
Indiana: LaGrange, Elkhart, St. Joseph, Steuben
| Category | Semester | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $2,052.00 | $4,104.00 |
| Fees | $468.00 | $936.00 |
| Books/Supplies | $1,154.00 | $2,308.00 |
| Personal | $1,081.00 | $2,162.00 |
| Transportation | $1,169.00 | $2,338.00 |
| Living Allowance | $2,062.00 | $4,124.00 |
| Loan Fee | $13.00 | $27.00 |
| Totals | $7,999.00 | $15,999.00 |
In State
Live in Michigan outside district/service area
| Category | Semester | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $2,484.00 | $4,968.00 |
| Fees | $468.00 | $936.00 |
| Books/Supplies | $1,154.00 | $2,308.00 |
| Personal | $1,081.00 | $2,162.00 |
| Transportation | $1,169.00 | $2,338.00 |
| Living Allowance (Room & Board) | $2,062.00 | $4,124.00 |
| Loan Fee | $13.00 | $27.00 |
| Totals | $8,431.00 | $16,863.00 |
Out-of-State
Live outside Michigan and not in service area
| Category | Semester | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $2,928.00 | $5,856.00 |
| Fees | $468.00 | $936.00 |
| Books/Supplies | $1,154.00 | $2,308.00 |
| Personal | $1,081.00 | $2,162.00 |
| Transportation | $1,169.00 | $2,338.00 |
| Living Allowance | $2,062.00 | $4,124.00 |
| Loan Fee | $13.00 | $27.00 |
| Totals | $8,875.00 | $17,751.00 |
Why Students Choose to Live with Parents
Living at home can make college more affordable while giving students access to:
- Local support systems
- Lower housing and food costs
- Time to focus on school, work, or family responsibilities
- Flexible schedules for commuting adults
This option is especially popular with first-generation college students and those planning to transfer after earning an associate degree.
Financial Aid Resources
- Apply for Financial Aid
- Net Price Calculator
- Explore Scholarships & Grants
- Payment Plans
- Schedule an Appointment with Financial Aid
Compare Living Options
Not sure if staying home is your best fit? Compare cost breakdowns for all scenarios:
FAQs: Living with Parents
Q: Does living with parents reduce my financial aid?
A: Not necessarily. Your aid is based on your full cost of attendance, and living
with parents may reduce your borrowing needs.
Q: Is the room and board estimate realistic if I live at home rent-free?
A: Yes. This is a standardized estimate used to calculate aid eligibility. It’s based
on average food and household contribution costs.
Q: Can I still apply for federal and state aid?
A: Absolutely. All students—regardless of housing status—should complete the FAFSA.
Q: Will I qualify for the Michigan Achievement Scholarship if I live with parents?
A: Yes. Your living arrangement does not affect your eligibility for this scholarship
or other Michigan-based aid.
Q: What if I help support my family while attending school?
A: We encourage you to meet with our financial aid office. You may qualify for additional
support or be eligible for special circumstances.