College of the Desert
Palm Desert, California
Total Tuition Cost$1,288
Avg. Cost after Aid$11,812
Annual cost$20,053
Average aid package—
Percent receiving Aid—
College of the Desert Cost: What you'll actually pay
What you'll actually pay at College of the Desert
College of the Desert cost varies widely based on your family's income. Sticker price sits around $20,053 per year including tuition, housing, and fees, but most students pay far less. Many of undergrads receive need-based aid, and families earning under $30,000 typically pay $10,791. Kollegio shows you personalized estimates so you can plan with confidence, not guesswork.
See your real cost in minutes
Stop wondering if College of the Desert fits your budget. Use Kollegio's tools to estimate your net price based on your profile, explore scholarship matches, and compare aid packages across schools. Get clarity on what College of the Desert cost looks like for students like you, without the overwhelm.
See your real cost in minutes
Stop wondering if College of the Desert fits your budget. Use Kollegio's tools to estimate your net price based on your profile, explore scholarship matches, and compare aid packages across schools. Get clarity on what College of the Desert cost looks like for students like you, without the overwhelm.
Breaking down the full cost of attendance
Tuition and fees
College of the Desert's tuition is $1,326 for in-state students and $8,932 for out-of-state students, plus approximately 38 in fees. Financial aid and scholarships can significantly reduce these costs.
Room and board
College of the Desert is primarily a commuter campus, so most students live off-campus. Budget for housing costs in Palm Desert, which vary based on location and living situation. The campus offers meal plan options for students on campus during the day.
Books, supplies, and personal costs
Budget approximately $938 annually for textbooks, course materials, and personal expenses. Many students reduce these costs by buying used books, using library resources, or sharing materials. Kollegio's scholarship finder can help offset these extras.
Additional costs to plan for
Living in Palm Desert comes with urban costs—transportation, entertainment, and occasional dining out add up. Factor in $4,428 for these expenses depending on your lifestyle.
Cost Insights
Tuition$1,288
Fees$38
Room & Board$27,540
Books & Supplies$938
Personal/Other$4,428
Total Cost of attendance$34,232
How to make College of the Desert affordable
External Scholarships
External scholarships from private organizations, community foundations, and employers can supplement College of the Desert's aid package. Kollegio's scholarship finder matches you with opportunities tailored to your background, interests, and academic profile. Students often secure thousands in additional funding by applying strategically.
Work-Study and Campus Employment
College of the Desert offers federal work-study and campus employment opportunities, letting students earn annually. Jobs range from library positions to research assistant roles, and many connect directly to your academic interests.
Return on Investment: Outcomes and Value
Alumni starting salary
$31.1K
Graduate earnings
Graduates of College of the Desert earn a median salary of $31,085 within 6 years of graduation.
Student debt at graduation
Student debt varies based on your financial aid package and family contribution. Use Kollegio's tools to estimate your potential costs and find scholarships to reduce borrowing.
How Kollegio helps you pay less
Scholarship finder tailored to you
Kollegio matches you with scholarships based on your background, interests, and academic profile. These aren't generic lists—they're opportunities that fit your situation. Students using the tool often find thousands in external aid that reduces their out-of-pocket costs at College of the Desert.
Track deadlines and aid applications
Never miss a FAFSA deadline or scholarship due date. Kollegio organizes your financial aid timeline in one dashboard, sending reminders so you submit everything on time and maximize your aid eligibility.
College of the Desert Cost: Your Questions Answered
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