When students begin considering colleges, one of the first questions that comes to mind is: How much will it cost? High Point University (HPU), located in North Carolina, is a private institution known for its modern campus, small class sizes, and career-focused education. But along with its reputation comes a significant price tag. Understanding the tuition, fees, housing, dining, and financial aid options at HPU can help students and families plan better.
Tuition Costs at High Point University
The primary component of college expenses is tuition. As a private university, HPU’s tuition is higher than many public universities.
| Academic Year | Undergraduate Tuition (Full-Time) | Graduate Programs (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 2024–2025 | $43,000–$45,000 per year | $15,000–$25,000 per year depending on program |
HPU uses a flat tuition rate for full-time undergraduates taking 12–18 credits per semester. Students who take extra credits beyond the maximum may need to pay per-credit fees.
Mandatory Fees
On top of tuition, HPU charges mandatory student fees. These cover access to technology, student services, health centers, labs, and campus facilities.
- Student Services Fee: Around $1,500 per year
- Technology Fee: Around $400 per year
- Course-specific fees (for labs, music, art, etc.): Vary by department
Housing and Meal Plans
Since HPU is a residential university, most students live on campus at least during their first years.
Housing Costs
HPU offers a variety of housing options—traditional dorms, suites, and apartment-style residences.
- Traditional Residence Halls: $7,000–$9,000 per year
- Apartment/Suite Housing: $10,000–$14,000 per year
Dining Plans
Meal plans are mandatory for students living on campus.
- Standard Meal Plan: $5,000–$6,000 per year
- Premium Plans (more dining flexibility): $6,500+ per year
Additional Expenses to Consider
Students should also budget for other expenses not covered by tuition and housing:
- Books & Supplies: $1,000–$1,500 annually
- Personal Expenses: $2,000–$3,000 annually
- Transportation (for off-campus commuting or travel): Varies widely
When all expenses are combined, the total cost of attendance (COA) at High Point University often exceeds $60,000 per year.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
The high sticker price does not necessarily mean every student pays the full amount. HPU provides various forms of financial support:
- Merit Scholarships – Awarded based on GPA, test scores, and academic achievements.
- Need-Based Grants – Determined by FAFSA and family income.
- Work-Study Programs – Opportunities to earn money while studying.
- Special Scholarships – Leadership, service, and talent-based awards.
On average, most HPU students receive institutional aid that reduces their actual cost significantly.
Comparing HPU Costs with Other Universities
To put things in perspective, here’s how HPU compares with some other private universities in the U.S.:
| University | Annual Tuition (2024–25) | Total COA Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| High Point University | $43,000–$45,000 | $60,000–$65,000 |
| Elon University | $44,000 | $63,000 |
| Wake Forest University | $64,000 | $80,000+ |
| Duke University | $66,000 | $85,000+ |
HPU’s cost is slightly lower than top-tier private universities, but still higher than most public universities.
Tips for Managing the Cost of HPU
- Apply Early for Scholarships: HPU has priority deadlines for merit aid.
- Use FAFSA Strategically: Submit as soon as possible to maximize need-based aid.
- Consider On-Campus Jobs: Many students work part-time to cover personal expenses.
- Look into External Scholarships: National, state, and private scholarships can reduce the net price.
Final Thoughts
High Point University offers a premium, student-focused educational experience with excellent facilities, mentorship opportunities, and career support. However, attending comes at a significant financial investment. For many families, the net cost after scholarships and aid can make HPU a more affordable option than the sticker price suggests.
Careful planning, early financial aid applications, and exploring scholarship opportunities can make the HPU experience both academically rewarding and financially manageable.
FAQs About High Point University Cost
Q1. What is the average cost of attending High Point University per year?
The average total cost of attendance is around $60,000–$65,000 per year, including tuition, housing, meals, and fees.
Q2. Does High Point University give full scholarships?
HPU offers competitive merit scholarships, but full tuition or full-ride scholarships are rare and usually limited to top applicants.
Q3. Is High Point University more expensive than other private universities?
HPU is slightly less expensive than elite private universities like Duke or Wake Forest but still costs more than most public universities.
Q4. Can students live off-campus to save money?
Yes, upper-class students may live off-campus, but freshmen and sophomores are generally required to live in university housing.
Q5. What percentage of HPU students receive financial aid?
A majority of students—over 90%—receive some form of financial assistance, significantly reducing the net cost.
