📅 2026–2027 Planning Note: The costs below reflect the most recently published figures (2025–2026). Universities typically finalize the next year’s rates in the spring, and we’ll update this page once official 2026–2027 numbers are released.

Planning tip: At large public universities, tuition, fees, and housing usually increase modestly each year (often in the 2–5% range). For early budgeting, families may want to plan for roughly $1,000–$1,500 more in-state or $2,000–$3,000 more out-of-state in total direct costs once new rates are published.

Average Federal Net Price: $15,803 — this is what families actually paid after grants and scholarships (no loans), based on the most recent federal data. Your specific cost could be significantly lower or higher depending on your financial aid eligibility and merit scholarships. New to Net Price & SAI? Read our guide.

🌎 Regional Tuition Programs:
UND participates in the Midwest Student Exchange Program (MSEP), giving eligible students from select Midwestern states reduced tuition. North Dakota also maintains full tuition reciprocity with Minnesota, allowing Minnesota residents to pay in-state rates after submitting an annual reciprocity form.

❓ Cost of Attendance FAQs

What does “net price” really mean?
It’s the average amount families actually pay after scholarships and grants—no loans included.

Does Minnesota reciprocity apply automatically?
No. Students must apply each year through the Minnesota Office of Higher Education, but approval typically covers all four years once enrolled.

Can students from other states qualify for tuition discounts?
Yes. Students from MSEP states like Kansas, Missouri, and Wisconsin can qualify for 10–15% lower tuition rates.

How accurate are these costs?
Figures are verified for the 2026–2027 academic year and updated annually when new data is posted by UND’s Financial Aid Office.

Sources (COA):
Official Cost of Attendance: https://und.edu/admissions/costs-tuition/undergraduate.html
Tuition & Fees breakdown (resident vs. nonresident): https://und.edu/admissions/costs-tuition/tuition-fees.html
Housing & Meal Plan rates (Residence Life): https://und.edu/student-life/housing/housing-rates.html
Reciprocity information (Minnesota and MSEP): https://und.edu/admissions/costs-tuition/reciprocity.html
Midwest Student Exchange Program details (MHEC): https://msep.mhec.org/institution/university-north-dakota
Minnesota Office of Higher Education — Reciprocity application: https://www.ohe.state.mn.us/mPg.cfm?pageID=97
College Factual (average net price verification): https://www.collegefactual.com/colleges/university-of-north-dakota/paying-for-college/

Note: UND is test-optional, but submitting ACT or SAT scores can help students reach the top tier. UND superscores, meaning they’ll use the best section scores across multiple test dates.

Automatic Scholarship FAQs

Do you need to apply separately?
No — students are automatically considered once they apply for admission.

Are test scores required?
No, but submitting ACT/SAT can unlock the top award tier. UND superscores, so it’s worth sending scores.

When is the best time to apply?
By February 1. Applying later can still qualify, but funds may be limited and top tiers may not be guaranteed.

Can these scholarships be stacked?
Yes — automatic merit can be combined with competitive awards or need-based aid unless otherwise noted.

Tip for parents: These awards are layered on top of automatic scholarships. Encourage your student to apply early (by February 1) and take time on the essay or leadership statement—they really do matter here.

Competitive Scholarship FAQs

Are these on top of automatic scholarships?
Yes—competitive awards like Leadership Fellows or National Merit stack with UND’s automatic merit scholarships.

How do you apply for Leadership Fellows?
Through UND’s scholarship portal by February 1, including an essay and leadership résumé.

Do National Merit Finalists need a separate UND app?
No—once UND is listed as first choice with the National Merit Corporation, the scholarship is awarded automatically.

What’s the real difference between guaranteed and competitive awards?
Guaranteed awards are based on GPA/test scores; competitive awards look at leadership, service, or national recognition beyond academics.

Hidden Gems FAQ

Do I need to apply separately for these awards?
Most of these require filling out NDSU’s Scholarship Portal application by February 1, but ROTC and music/ensemble awards need their own audition or program application.

Can these stack with automatic merit scholarships?
Yes. Families often pair $3–5k in donor or identity-based awards on top of automatic tuition discounts.

Who has the best shot at ROTC awards?
Students who show physical readiness, leadership skills, and meet GPA/test score minimums. National applicants have priority, but campus-based ROTC awards are also available for strong first-year cadets.

Are music and marching band scholarships only for music majors?
No. Any student, regardless of major, can qualify with a successful audition and commitment to the ensemble.

UND calls it the “Honors College,” and it’s less about piling on extra work and more about smaller, discussion-based classes, closer connections with professors, and a shot at competitive fellowships down the road. It’s an option you choose, not something you’re automatically swept into.

Honors College FAQs

Is admission automatic?
No—you have to apply, either when you apply to UND or shortly after. GPA around 3.5+ helps, but they also look for curiosity and initiative.

What’s a “typical” Honors student at UND?
Not just the straight-A kids. Many are strong students who want smaller classes, mentoring, or a head start on grad school. You’ll find future teachers, engineers, and pre-law students sitting side by side.

Do Honors students get their own scholarships?
Yes, a modest $500–$1,500 per year that can renew if you stay in good standing.

What makes it worth it?
The tight-knit community, early research opportunities, and that “Honors” line on your diploma and transcript—especially helpful for grad school or fellowships.

Standout Program: John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences (Aviation)
UND’s Odegard School is a global leader in aviation education, widely recognized for pilot training, aviation management, air traffic and UAS. It’s often described as the world’s most comprehensive aerospace university.

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