Why does IU include personal expenses in citing costs?
College expenses include fixed expenses and personal expenses. Fixed expenses such as tuition, mandatory fees, and room and board are clearly outlined in all of our cost information. Personal expenses include books, laundry, snacks, entertainment, telephone use, and transportation. Many of these expenses would also arise at home, but we feel that it’s important to include these estimates to give a more accurate picture of what attending college might cost.