Higher education in the US varies significantly in cost depending on whether a school is public or private. On average, public colleges cost around $7,000 per year for in-state students, while out-of-state and international students pay more than $18,000 on average. Additional living expenses can add $10,000-$12,000 per year. Many students take out loans to help pay for their education. Some students begin at lower-cost community colleges to save money before transferring to a four-year university.