Financial Aid
A complete look at tuition, net price, and financial aid options at College of the Desert in Palm Desert, CA.
What Does It Cost to Attend College of the Desert?
In-State Tuition and Fees
$1,326
Out-of-State Tuition and Fees
$9,586
Average Net Price
$18,169
Price Difference
-$16,843
Avg. financial aid
How College of the Desert Compares
$1,326 annual in-state tuition makes College of the Desert one of the more affordable trade-college options — most peer schools land between $3,000 and $10,000. After grants and scholarships, the average net price drops to $18,169, an even more accessible figure. For CA residents weighing cost against credential value, this profile is a strong starting point.
What Are the Tuition & Fees at College of the Desert?
Annual published tuition and required fees for residents of CA
Annual published tuition and required fees for non-residents
Average amount students pay after grants and scholarships
With annual tuition of just $1,326, College of the Desert keeps costs low for students. Factor in financial aid, and the average net cost is $18,169.
What Is the Net Price by Family Income at College of the Desert? (2023-24)
The net price at College of the Desert starts at $14,872 for the lowest earners. Additional scholarships and external aid may help offset these costs.
$0 - $30,000
$14,872
$30,001 - $48,000
$15,071
$48,001 - $75,000
$17,137
$75,001 - $110,000
$20,621
Over $110,000
$21,969
What Financial Aid Is Available at College of the Desert? (2023-24)
Financial aid is widely available at College of the Desert: 88% of first-time, full-time students receive grant or scholarship assistance averaging $6,822.
Students Receiving Any Financial Aid
995 of 1,125 students
Grants & Scholarships
Recipients
990 (88%)
Average Award
$6,822
Federal Pell Grants
Recipients
721 (64%)
Average Award
$5,680
Aid by Source
State & Local Grants
896 recipients (80%)
$2,740 avg
Institutional Grants
455 recipients (40%)
$391 avg
What Are the Student Loan Numbers at College of the Desert? (2023-24)
Only 1% of undergraduates at College of the Desert take out federal student loans, with an average loan of $7,763. This low borrowing rate suggests students are finding other ways to cover costs.
Total Borrowers
111
1% of students
Average Loan Amount
$7,763
Financial Aid Resources
Net Price Calculator
Estimate your actual cost after financial aid
Financial Aid Office
Learn about available aid programs and apply
FAFSA Information
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to qualify for grants, loans, and work-study programs.
Apply for FAFSA →Payment Plans Available
College of the Desert may offer payment plans that let you spread tuition costs over the semester. Reach out to the financial aid office to ask about options such as:
- Monthly payment plans
- Deferred payment options
- Employer tuition assistance programs
Quick Links
Need Help?
Contact the financial aid office for personalized assistance with:
- Scholarship opportunities
- Grant eligibility
- Work-study programs
- Payment plan options
Phone
7603468041Federal School Codes
Use these codes when applying for federal financial aid