Tuition & Fees for the 2020-21 Academic Year

In this year that has been like no other, the College is especially grateful to the students and families that comprise the Oxy community. We are always mindful that the cost of an Occidental education is high and that it requires a sacrifice for many of our families--particularly this year, with the serious economic disruption caused by the global pandemic. In recognition of this challenging situation, we will not increase tuition for the 2020-21 academic year, keeping it fixed at the 2019-20 rate. We have chosen to do so despite the budgetary impact of the pandemic on the College. A summary of tuition, room and board, and other fees for the coming year can be found here.

As we announced on June 15, we’re excited about the prospect of reopening campus this fall. We know that some students will not be able to return to campus or may choose to stay at home and continue progress toward their degree remotely. In order to maximize the range of options available to our students, Occidental will offer a mix of in-person and remote classes. With more time for development and planning, we are working to ensure that the remote courses take full advantage of the technologies available and enable students to meet their learning goals. By July 31, students will be able to access specific information about the instructional format of their selected courses. No matter the format, students will continue to enjoy one-on-one interaction with their faculty and a personalized academic approach--the fundamental basis of the Oxy educational experience. As such, tuition will be the same regardless of the format of instruction.

We know that the economic impact of the pandemic has impacted many families. Occidental’s policy of meeting the demonstrated financial need of every student remains unchanged. First-year and transfer students who receive financial aid from the College will receive an updated  package that reflects these changes. If your financial situation has changed, we encourage you to reach out to our financial aid office with questions or concerns.

In an ordinary year, the first bill for the academic year is due August 1. Given that these are anything but ordinary circumstances, the first bill will not be sent until August 1, with an August 15 due date to provide families with flexibility and additional time. We will, of course, continue to keep you updated on this and other important issues.

While the uncertainty that the pandemic has created in our lives continues, I can assure you that the satisfactions of an Occidental education will remain the defining elements of your experience this coming year: big ideas, thoughtful instruction, a caring faculty and staff, and friendships with peers.

Warmly,
President Jonathan Veitch