The most expensive college in the United States for the 2023-2024 academic year was Pepperdine University, with a total annual cost of attendance of $93,512. Other highly expensive institutions include Northwestern University ($91,290), University of Southern California ($90,453), and Columbia University ($86,097) based on total costs including tuition, fees, room, and board. These private schools tend to have very high sticker prices, but many offer substantial financial aid packages to reduce costs for students.
Globally, the most expensive universities also include prestigious U.S. institutions such as the University of Chicago ($89,040), Columbia University ($88,992), and Harvey Mudd College ($88,396). Internationally, elite universities like ETH Zurich and Imperial College London are expensive for international students primarily due to high living costs.
In summary:
- Most expensive U.S. college: Pepperdine University (~$93,512 per year)
- Other top expensive U.S. colleges: Northwestern, USC, Columbia, University of Chicago
- Top globally expensive universities include these U.S. schools plus elite UK and Swiss universities.
All cost figures reflect the total annual cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, and living expenses.
