COA is proud that our students have repeatedly ranked us among the top schools in the nation for financial aid, and we consistently do our best to make it possible for all students to afford the college.

Our net price calculator is one way to see how financial aid might reduce your out-of-pocket costs. But the best way to get a sense of the true net cost of a COA education is by applying for financial aid.

Basic information

If you’re new to financial aid, www.finaid.org is a great resource for understanding the process and getting started. And our staff are always here to answer your questions - now and throughout the process.

Research and travel support

COA provides each student up to $1800 to support “expeditionary learning”. This includes COA courses with a travel component as well as independent studies and residencies. These funds support both domestic and foreign travel. Learn more.

Financial aid staff 

Work-study

The vast majority of COA students have a work-study job included as part of their financial aid package—and at COA, work-study is a big part of the student experience and campus life.  

Work-study perspectives

  • Sea Urchin Café
    Sea Urchin Café
    “I love making epic meals during my shift by combining all the best ingredients into new, unique dishes!”-Clément Moliner-Roy
  • International Student Office
    International Student Office
    “I am always surrounded by amazing people. I love working with Monica (the coordinator of international student services), as well as being around the rest of the student life staff and the international student body. It never gets boring.”-Vitoria Bitencourt
  • Writing Center
    Writing Center
    “I enjoy working in the writing center because I get to help people write about important and inspiring topics.”-Austin Schuver