For Federal student aid purposes, COA is defined as a learner’s total cost of attending a postsecondary institution for a specified period of time. The COA includes a base rate for living expenses, books and supplies, internet fees, and loan fees. Those are categorized as indirect costs—meaning not paid directly to Capella. Other costs include tuition, fees, and residencies (if applicable). These are considered direct costs—paid to Capella. Other items include dependent care, disability-related expenses, and some miscellaneous expenses.

While the Department of Education requires that each program has a set COA, Capella University determines the COA for each program we offer.