We believe that the more tools and resources that you have to manage your finances, the better able you are to complete law school and with less debt. Our teams have developed these budget planners and guidelines as a framework to help get you started.
Cost of Attendance & Student Budget
What is the Student Expense Budget?
Your student expense budget plays a pivotal role in determining the highest amount of financial aid that you can receive in a particular academic year, including loans, scholarships, or both. Please note that you cannot borrow more than the approved budget limit.
This budget reflects a modest graduate student lifestyle and follows federal guidelines, limiting what expenses can be covered. Consumer debt and bar preparation courses are not included. We strongly recommend paying off credit card debt and avoiding new debt before starting law school.
If you experience financial hardship, reach out to our office. In exceptional cases, we may adjust your budget for legitimate educational expenses with proper documentation. Requests for budget increases open in early October.
We may adjust a student’s aid package when institutional resources change, total support exceeds demonstrated need, or circumstances shift—such as a change in family members attending college or significant income adjustments.
Full-Time Student Expense Budget Breakdown
2025-2026 9-Month Student Expense Budget
| New York State Residents | Non-Residents | |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Tuition | $15,450.00 | $25,640.00 |
| Loan Fee | $480.00 | |
| Supplies | $1,500.00 | |
| Technology Fee | $250.00 | |
| Consolidated Fee | $30.00 | |
| Activity Fee and Material Fee |
$84.00 $200.00 |
|
| Food | $4,392.00 | |
| Housing | $18,630.00 | |
| Medical | $2,272.00 | |
| Personal | $2,824.00 | |
| Transportation | $1,188.00 | |
| Total | $47,300.00 | $57,490.00 |
Important Notice of Possible Changes
Because of changing conditions, the City University of New York reserves the right to modify the academic programs and requirements of the University and its constituent colleges without advance notice. Tuition and fees outlined in this publication are similarly subject to change by the Board of Trustees of The City University of New York. The University regrets any inconvenience this may cause.
Part-Time Student Expense Budget Breakdown
2025-2026 9-Month Student Expense Budget
| New York State Residents | Non-Residents | |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Tuition | $10,610.00 | $17,630.00 |
| Loan Fee | $480.00 | |
| Supplies | $1,500.00 | |
| Technology Fee | $126.00 | |
| Consolidated Fee | $30.00 | |
| Activity Fee and Material Fee |
$42.00 $150.00 |
|
| Food | $4,392.00 | |
| Housing | $18,630.00 | |
| Medical | $2,272.00 | |
| Personal | $2,824.00 | |
| Transportation | $1,188.00 | |
| Total | $42,244.00 | $49,264.00 |
Important Notice of Possible Changes
Because of changing conditions, the City University of New York reserves the right to modify the academic programs and requirements of the University and its constituent colleges without advance notice. Tuition and fees outlined in this publication are similarly subject to change by the Board of Trustees of The City University of New York. The University regrets any inconvenience this may cause.
Items Covered by the Student Expense Budget
Medical and Dental Expenses
Expenses for necessary medical treatment not covered by insurance may be allowed as an adjustment to the student budget if you have already borrowed to the full extent of the budget. Should you have a medical or dental expense that is not covered by insurance, please contact the Office of Financial Aid. You’ll need a detailed cost of treatment and billing summary for the expenses along with a letter from your doctor substantiating your request.
Computer Purchase
If you borrowed up to the budget and require additional loan funds to cover computer expenses, you may request a budget increase for the purchase of a personal computer. You’ll need to complete the Computer Loan Request Form and attach supporting documentation of the computer expense.
Items Not Covered by the Student Expense Budget
Moving/Summer Expenses
Moving expenses incurred during the summer preceding your entry into CUNY Law are not legitimate for an increase to students’ expenses budget. Equally important, expenses incurred during the summer(s) between academic years are not covered under the student expense budget.
Consumer Debt
The financial aid budget will not allow for any consumer debt. Students are advised to pay off all credit card debt(s) before coming to law school. The Office of Financial Aid cannot make allowances for monthly credit card payments.
Wardrobe
The cost of a professional wardrobe is not considered for a budget adjustment. Students are advised that this cost may be considerable.