Introduction
Choosing the right university is not only about academic programs—it’s also about affordability. Rowan University, located in Glassboro, New Jersey, has become one of the most affordable yet high-quality universities in the United States. For both domestic and international students, understanding tuition fees and available financial aid is crucial in planning for higher education.
This article breaks down Rowan University tuition fees for undergraduate and graduate students, as well as housing, living costs, scholarships, and financial aid options to help students budget effectively.
Rowan University Tuition Fees: An Overview
Rowan University is a public research university, so tuition rates vary depending on whether you are an in-state (New Jersey resident), out-of-state, or international student.
Undergraduate Tuition Fees (2025)
- In-state students: $14,000–$16,000 per year
- Out-of-state students: $23,000–$26,000 per year
- International students: Approximately $24,000–$28,000 per year
💡 International students pay tuition similar to out-of-state students.
Graduate Tuition Fees (2025)
Graduate program tuition depends on the field of study:
- Master’s Programs: $18,000–$25,000 per year
- Engineering/Science Programs: $22,000–$28,000 per year
- Medical and Health Programs: $30,000+ per year
Rowan’s graduate programs remain more affordable compared to larger universities in New York or Philadelphia.
Additional Costs to Consider
When calculating the cost of attending Rowan, students must also include housing, meals, books, and personal expenses.
| Expense Category | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| On-campus Housing | $9,500–$12,000 |
| Meal Plans | $4,500–$6,000 |
| Books & Supplies | $1,200–$1,500 |
| Personal Expenses | $2,000–$3,000 |
| Health Insurance (International) | $2,000–$2,500 |
👉 Total estimated cost of attendance for an international undergraduate: $38,000–$44,000 per year.
Rowan University Financial Aid Options
Rowan is committed to making education accessible and affordable. Financial aid comes in the form of scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.
For Domestic Students
- Federal Financial Aid – U.S. students can apply for Pell Grants, Federal Direct Loans, and Work-Study through FAFSA.
- State Aid – New Jersey residents may qualify for NJ STARS II and other state-funded programs.
- Rowan University Need-Based Grants – Designed to support students from low-income backgrounds.
For International Students
International students are not eligible for federal aid, but they can apply for:
- Merit Scholarships – Awarded to students with high academic performance (up to $10,000/year).
- Departmental Scholarships – Certain majors like engineering or business offer additional financial awards.
- Private Loans – Available through U.S. lenders with a co-signer.
- On-Campus Jobs – International students can work up to 20 hours/week during semesters.
Rowan University Scholarships
Rowan offers a variety of scholarships to reduce costs for both undergraduate and graduate students.
Merit-Based Scholarships
- Rowan University International Student Scholarship: Based on academic achievement, renewable annually.
- Presidential Scholarship: Competitive scholarship for top-performing students.
Program-Specific Scholarships
- Henry Rowan Engineering Scholarship – For high-achieving engineering students.
- College of Business Scholarships – Awarded to students excelling in finance, accounting, and management.
External Scholarships
International students can also apply for Fulbright Scholarships or private organizations that fund U.S. study.
Comparing Rowan with Other Universities
When compared with nearby institutions like Rutgers University or Temple University, Rowan’s tuition is generally lower.
- Rutgers Out-of-State Tuition: ~$32,000/year
- Temple Out-of-State Tuition: ~$30,000/year
- Rowan Out-of-State Tuition: ~$24,000–$28,000/year
✅ Rowan offers quality education at a more affordable price, making it attractive for international students seeking value.
Cost-Saving Tips for Students
- Live off-campus – Renting an apartment with roommates can be cheaper than on-campus housing.
- Apply early for scholarships – Many awards are given on a first-come basis.
- Work part-time – International students can earn up to $8,000/year through campus jobs.
- Buy used books or digital copies – Reduces book costs by 50%.
- Apply for assistantships (graduate students) – Teaching and research assistantships can cover tuition plus provide a stipend.
Career Outcomes and ROI (Return on Investment)
Rowan graduates typically earn competitive salaries in their fields, which helps balance the cost of education.
- Average starting salary (Engineering): $65,000/year
- Average starting salary (Business): $55,000/year
- Healthcare and Biomedical Fields: $70,000+/year
With strong employer connections in New Jersey, Philadelphia, and New York City, Rowan provides students with a good return on investment.
Conclusion
Rowan University offers a cost-effective education for both domestic and international students. While tuition is more affordable than many neighboring universities, students also benefit from scholarships, financial aid, and strong job outcomes after graduation.
For students seeking an excellent education near major cities like Philadelphia and New York—without paying Ivy League prices—Rowan University is an excellent choice.
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