New Undergraduate Tri-State Tuition FAQ: Northern Kentucky University, Greater Cincinnati Region

In fall 2025, NKU will be launching its 3 States, 1 Rate tuition model for new undergraduate students from Kentucky, Ohio and Indiana. This is an exciting development for NKU as we continue to streamline the college admissions process, reduce the confusion and complexity surrounding college tuition and make education even more accessible for new students.

Under this new tuition model, undergraduate students from Kentucky, Ohio and Indiana who are admitted for the fall of 2025 will qualify for in-state tuition regardless of county of residence within those states.

What will my tuition be if I live in the tri-state area?

Under the 3 States, 1 Rate tuition model, all new students (including first-time freshmen and transfer students) from Kentucky, Ohio and Indiana will pay the in-state tuition rate plus all mandatory fees

For example, based on the 2024-2025 in-state tuition rate the annual tri-state rate would be $11,088 - subject to change based on annual tuition increases.

What if I live outside of Kentucky, Ohio or Indiana?

All new students outside of Kentucky, Ohio and Indiana, both domestic and international, will pay the out-of-state rate.

For example, based on 2024-25 rates the out-of-state annual tuition rate would be $14,999 - subject to change based on annual tuition increases.

Do I qualify for this tuition model if I enroll in a fully online program?

The tri-state tuition model is not available for students enrolled in our accelerated online academic programs that come with the path to success scholarship. AOL program examples are available at https://onlinedegrees.nku.edu/programs/.

Will my tuition change if I’m a current NKU student that lives in Ohio or Indiana?

Current NKU students who are residents of Ohio and Indiana will retain their current tuition and institutional scholarships/discount pricing model, subject to any applicable approved tuition rate increases.

What GPA do I need to have to be admitted into NKU?

To be eligible for admission to NKU, all students must have an unweighted high-school GPA of 2.0 or greater.

Will scholarships change for new students in fall 2025?

NKU will continue to offer two competitive scholarships (Presidents and KY Governors Scholars) to the highest-achieving high-school students.

Beginning fall 2025, NKU will offer academic merit scholarships as follows:

Kentucky residents can qualify for $3,000, $2,000 or $1,000 in merit scholarships per year based upon high school GPA.
Ohio and Indiana residents can qualify for $2,000 or $1,000 in merit scholarships per year based upon high school GPA.
Residents outside of Kentucky, Ohio and Indiana are not eligible for academic merit scholarships.
All students may apply for NKU foundation-funded scholarships.

New Undergraduate Tri-State Tuition FAQ

The Office of Student Financial Assistance

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