What Are Mandatory Fees?

Mandatory fees are charges that a college adds to tuition and requires all or most students to pay. They cover services and facilities that benefit the student body, and they appear on your bill as separate line items or as one combined fee. Together with tuition, they form the core of the amount that the college charges before housing and meals.

Typical examples

• Technology fee: for computer labs, software, wireless networks and IT support.
• Student activity fee: funding clubs, events and student government.
• Health services fee: supporting a campus health center and counseling.
• Recreation or athletics fee: for gyms, sports facilities and sometimes admission to games.
• Library fee.
• Transport fee: for shuttle buses or public transit passes.
• Lab or course fees: for specific classes, such as science labs or art studios.
• Orientation, graduation and registration fees.
• Student union or building fees, sometimes linked to construction.

The names and amounts vary by institution.

Why they matter

Fees can add several hundred to several thousand dollars per year, so they matter for comparing colleges. A low tuition headline can hide high fees, and the reverse. Look at the full breakdown on the college's tuition and fees page and in the cost of attendance.

Fees versus optional charges

Optional charges include parking permits, meal plans in some cases, student insurance with waivers and fees for particular services. Check which are required for you.

Waivers and refunds

Some fees can be waived, such as health insurance if you show proof of other coverage by the deadline. Part-time students may pay reduced fees. If you withdraw, check the refund policy, since fees may not be refunded after a specific date.

Budgeting tips

• Read the fee schedule for each term.
• Check what is included to avoid paying twice for services.
• Ask about course-specific fees when registering.
• Compare net price, which includes aid.
• Look for hidden fees, such as late payment or transcript charges.

Related terms

See tuition, sticker price, bursar, tuition waiver and cost of living allowance.