Living Off Campus and Financial Aid
In general, the cost of attendance used in awarding financial aid does not change if you choose to live off campus, unless you commute from home. It is important to consider all housing options available, and plan accordingly and early. To help with that process we offer the following general points:
- The Housing and Food expenses in the cost of attendance for students living off-campus will be the same as the average cost of housing for first and second year students living on-campus, and the Premium meal plan.
- Your financial aid eligibility will be reduced if you decide to commute from home, as you will not be paying room charges or rent.
- If you choose to live off campus, you will see a change in your billing.
- If your financial aid exceeds the charges on your student account, you will be entitled to a refund once classes begin. You may use that refund to help pay your off campus expenses (rent, utilities, etc). Tufts does not send money directly to landlords.
- Remember that there are extra costs related to off-campus living, such as deposits, first and last month rent requirements, furniture, storage, and moving expenses.
- Make a budget for the year to help plan for your expenses. When you receive your Financial Aid Notice and your bill in early July, you and your family should sit together and plan how you will meet your tuition and your monthly living expenses for the coming year.
If you need help or have any questions about billing or financial aid, please make an appointment to meet with your financial aid counselor as soon as possible. (Be aware that appointments during March and April are extremely limited due to the first-year awarding cycle).
You can also get much more information about preparing to live off campus, tenant rights and responsibilities, and other useful resources for renters on the Tufts Off-Campus Housing website.