Cost of Attendance

These cost-of-attendance budgets for the 2012-2013 academic year are based in large part on data from a bi-annual survey of what our current medical students are actually spending for books and supplies, housing, food, personal expenses, and transportation.

The costs reflect living expenses for the academic year only.  Living expenses for non-school periods and for spouses and/or other dependents are not included because they are treated in the need analysis formula as an allowance against income rather than a direct cost.  In the case of a married student, therefore, the spouse’s living costs are not included in the budget, but the expected family contribution is reduced by the amount appropriate to maintain the spouse and home.

Some students have extenuating circumstances that may justify construction of an individual cost-of-attendance that is higher than the standard one primarily to validate need for outside loan assistance.  Examples of potentially appropriate adjustments are listed below.  In all cases, appropriate documentation must be provided.

• Medical and dental care in excess of the benefits provided by the university health service.
• Consideration is given if repayment of principal and/or interest is compulsory during medical school enrollment.
• Childcare costs for married students are only allowed if the medical student’s spouse is working or in school.
• Students living at greater than average distances from Cleveland may have higher travel costs.
• It is recognized that medical students have additional transportation needs to fulfill their clinical rotation requirements.  While Federal Student Aid Legislation does not permit the use of student aid monies (even loans) for the purchase of an automobile, the Financial Aid Office will make every effort to be of non-monetary assistance to students for whom this poses a dilemma.

Other expenses may be allowed if they are necessary and related to attendance at medical school.