Cost of Attendance

No matter your family's economic situation, this is a big investment.

The cost of attendance is made up of both direct and indirect costs.

  • Direct costs are those that show up on the billing statement from Bowdoin; these typically include tuition, fees, food and housing (living expenses).
  • Indirect costs are the estimated expenses that do not appear on the bill, and it's just as important for students to budget for these. Examples generally include books and supplies, personal expenses, and travel.
Syd Benjamin '19 answers questions about cost of attendance, direct and indirect costs, and more.

Bowdoin meets every student's demonstrated need with scholarships and campus employment. We offer two different calculators to help you estimate your family's share of the cost to attend Bowdoin. Every student's situation is different, and we encourage you to reach out at any time with questions.

2023-2024 Cost of Attendance 

Direct Costs
Tuition $64,304
Fees $606
Housing $8,488
Food $9,202
Direct Costs Total $82,600
Indirect Costs
Books, Course Materials, Supplies, & Equipment $840
Miscellaneous Personal Expenses $1,660
Transportation** varies
Indirect Costs Total $2,500+
Total Cost of Attendance $85,100+

 *This table assumes that students will enroll in the Food (Board) plan (21-food plan).  

Any student that chooses a food (board) plan less than the 21-food plan will have their student aid Cost of Attendance (COA) adjusted to reflect the College’s billed charge for that specific plan (direct expense), and a daily meals allowance (indirect expense) will be provided. With the start of the 2023/2024 academic year, federal regulations require an allowance for food that is equivalent to 21-meals (three meals a day, seven days a week). Students with no food plan will not be billed for food on their student account but a daily allowance for food will be reflected in their student aid Cost of Attendance. 

**Estimated travel varies depending on student's permanent residence.