Delaware College Costs 2026
Compare tuition at DE public universities, private schools, and community colleges. Estimate total costs with financial aid and loan payments.
Public Tuition
$13,600
Private Tuition
$38,400
Student Debt
$36,400
Starting Salary
$52,300
Cost Calculator
Loan Estimate
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$108,000
Total After Financial Aid
$108,000
Annual Cost
$27,000
Annual After Aid
$27,000
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $108,000 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,226 |
| Total Interest | $39,158 |
| Total Loan Cost | $147,158 |
Delaware College Costs Overview
Delaware is home to 6+ major colleges and universities offering diverse educational opportunities. The average in-state tuition at DE public universities is $13,600 per year, which is 24% above the national average of $10,940. When you add room and board ($13,400/year), the total annual cost of attending a public university in Delaware reaches $27,000.
Private universities in Delaware average $38,400 per year in tuition alone, making a 4-year private degree approximately $207,200 including room and board. For students seeking a more affordable path, Delaware community colleges charge an average of just $4,200 per year, offering significant savings for the first two years before transferring to a four-year institution.
In-State vs. Out-of-State Tuition in Delaware
| Category | Annual Cost | 4-Year Total |
|---|---|---|
| Public In-State Tuition | $13,600 | $54,400 |
| Public Out-of-State Tuition | $35,360 | $141,440 |
| Private University Tuition | $38,400 | $153,600 |
| Community College | $4,200 | $8,400 |
| Room & Board (all types) | $13,400 | $53,600 |
Out-of-state students at Delaware public universities typically pay 2-3x the in-state rate. Establishing residency in DE before enrollment can save $87,040 over four years.
Top Colleges & Universities in Delaware
PTop Public Schools
- •University of Delaware — ~$13,600/yr (in-state)
- •Delaware State University — ~$13,600/yr (in-state)
- •Delaware Technical Community College — ~$13,600/yr (in-state)
RTop Private Schools
- •Wilmington University — ~$38,400/yr
- •Goldey-Beacom College — ~$38,400/yr
- •Wesley College — ~$38,400/yr
Delaware Financial Aid Programs
Delaware offers the SEED (Student Excellence Equals Degree) Scholarship providing free tuition at Delaware Technical Community College. The Delaware Scholarship Incentive Program provides need-based grants up to $2,200/year.
Beyond state programs, Delaware students can access federal Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for 2025-2026), Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), and federal work-study programs. Students should complete the FAFSA as early as possible to maximize aid eligibility. Use our FAFSA EFC Calculator to estimate your expected family contribution.
Student Outcomes in Delaware
65%
Graduation Rate
$52,300
Avg Starting Salary
$36,400
Median Student Debt
104
Cost of Living Index
The average college graduate in Delaware earns $52,300 in their first year after graduation, with a cost of living index of 104 (the national average is 100). Delaware's cost of living is near the national average, offering a balanced relationship between earnings and expenses. With a 65% graduation rate at public universities, students who choose Delaware schools should leverage academic support resources and careful major selection to maximize their chances of completing their degree.
Tips for Reducing College Costs in Delaware
- 1Start at a community college. At $4,200/year, completing your first two years at a DE community college before transferring can save $18,800 compared to starting at a public university.
- 2Apply for state financial aid early. Delaware state aid programs have limited funding. File your FAFSA as soon as it opens on October 1 to maximize your eligibility.
- 3Earn credits in high school. AP, IB, and dual enrollment programs let you earn college credit before enrolling, potentially saving a full semester or more of tuition.
- 4Graduate on time. Each extra year costs $27,000 at a public school. Only 65% of students at DE public universities graduate in 4 years—plan your course schedule carefully.
- 5Consider living off-campus. Room and board averages $13,400/year. Off-campus housing or living at home can significantly reduce this expense depending on local rental markets.
Compare with Neighboring States
| State | Public Tuition | Room & Board | Student Debt | Starting Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware (DE) | $13,600 | $13,400 | $36,400 | $52,300 |
| Maryland (MD) | $10,400 | $13,400 | $34,200 | $55,600 |
| Pennsylvania (PA) | $15,200 | $13,600 | $39,200 | $53,800 |
| New Jersey (NJ) | $14,800 | $14,400 | $35,600 | $56,400 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Calculators
Compare All 50 States + DC
See how Delaware ranks against every other state in tuition, debt, and graduate outcomes.
View All State Rankings