Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fee rates are subject to change at any time, subject to the approval of the Athens State University Board of Trustees. Tuition rates for the 2024-25 academic year were not finalized at the time of catalog publication. Information on current tuition and fee rates can be found on the Athens State University website. Payment due dates for each semester or term can be found in the Important Dates listing on the University website for each semester or term. Information on the estimated cost of attendance can be found on the Athens State University website.

In-State Tuition
In-state tuition rates apply to all students who can certify a specific address or location in the State of Alabama (or in Bedford, Franklin, Giles, Lawrence, Lincoln, Marshall, Maury, Moore, or Wayne county in Southern Tennessee) as their primary established residence for a period of at least one year immediately preceding the first day of classes for the academic term of admission, or who are otherwise classified as Alabama residents for tuition purposes as defined by state law and the University’s Establishing Residency for Tuition Purposes policy. In compliance with 38 U.S.C. §3679 (c), Public Law 114-315, the Choice Act, and other provisions of 38 U.S.C., in-state tuition rates may also apply to veterans, members of the United States Armed forces, or their dependents, and students who are eligible for certain benefits or educational assistance under 38 U.S.C. Additional details can be found in the Veterans Affairs section of this catalog.

Out-of-State Tuition
Out-of-state tuition rates apply to all students classified as non-Alabama residents for tuition purposes. A student who was classified as a non-Alabama resident for tuition purposes upon initial admission but whose residency circumstances have changed may apply for reclassification, with the burden of proof for documenting the change falling on the student. Additional details and deadlines for applying for reclassification can be found in the Establishing Residency for Tuition Purposes policy.

Non-Traditional Tuition
The Non-Traditional tuition rate applies to all courses taught 100% online or in blended format as well as directed studies, internships, practicums and work experience, regardless of the residency status of the student.

Senior Adult Scholarship Program
This program allows any non-degree seeking student 60 years or older (who meets standard admissions requirements) to audit Athens State courses. The senior student is eligible to receive a tuition waiver for Athens State courses in the amount of one-half the applicable tuition rate. All other applicable tuition and fees must be paid by the student. Registration in courses under this program is on a space available basis and requires registration during the late registration process. Students must enroll each semester with no lapse in enrollment in order to be eligible. Repeated courses are not eligible under this program.

Refunds
Current information about refunds can be found in the Refunds of Tuition and Fees policy in the University Policy Library.

Refunds in Compliance with Federal Regulations
The University complies with federal regulations relative to refund of tuition and other institutional charges and the return of funds for Title IV (financial aid) recipients (see below).

Refunds for Alabama National Guard Members and Reservists Called to Active Duty
Students who are active members of the Alabama National Guard or reservists or who are active duty military who are called to active duty in the time of national crisis may receive a full tuition refund at the time of withdrawal, if such student is unable to complete the term due to active duty orders or assignment to another location. See withdrawal policy.

Federal Regulations on Return of Funds for Students Receiving Title IV Aid (Financial Aid)
Title IV funds are awarded to students under the assumption that the student will attend school for the entire period for which the assistance is awarded. When a student fails to complete the term, the student may no longer be eligible for the full amount of Title IV funds he or she was scheduled to receive, and the institution and/or the student may be required to return funds according to federal regulations. For additional details, see the Student Financial Aid section of the catalog or the Financial Aid Regulations on the University website.

Returned Checks/Returned Automated Clearing House (ACH) Payments
If a student’s check is not paid on presentment or is dishonored, the student will be assessed a bad check fee. Athens State University may electronically debit or draft a student’s account for this charge. Also, if a student’s check is returned for insufficient or uncollected funds, the check may be electronically re-presented for payment. Returned checks cannot be re-deposited by the Office of Financial Affairs. After the second returned check, the Office of Financial Affairs will not accept a personal check for tuition and fees payment. Payment must be made using cash, money order, credit card, or cashier’s check.

Registration Holds
A student failing to meet financial obligations to the University will not be permitted to enroll in future semesters until the financial obligations have been cleared. If a student is enrolled in error while owing a past balance and having a financial obligation to the University that is past due or a result of Return to Title IV, the schedule will be deleted.