Paying For College

Important Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information

Based on the continuously evolving status surrounding the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, all online courses will continue as scheduled and all in-person and hybrid classes are now postponed through Sunday, April 5, 2020. The latest updates can be found at www.maricopa.edu/coronavirus.

An Affordable Education

According to the College Board, the average tuition this year ranges from $3,660 for in-district residents to $35,830 for out-of-state residents, but we've capped our tuition at $2,750 per semester. Other fees for lab kits and additional learning materials may apply.

2019-2020 Academic Year Tuition and Fees

Tuition: $250/credit. Tuition is capped at $2,750/semester if you take 11 credits or more.

Returned Check Fee: $15/check

Military Student Tuition: $215/credit. This rate is offered to military students and student veterans.

Transcripts: Official: $5. Unofficial transcripts are free!

Course Fees: May vary, depending on additional costs such as lab kit fees or proctoring exams.

It is advisable to pay your tuition at the time you register for classes. Tuition is due no later than 10 days prior to the start of your classes.

See Our Tuition Cost

Rio Offers Students a Variety of Payment Options

Credit Card or Check

Pay your tuition online with a credit or debit card or mail a check to our Cashier's Office.

See Payment Options

Financial Aid

Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see what kind of financial aid you may qualify for.

Learn More

College Scholarships

Let us know what scholarships you have received and we'll be able to apply them towards your balance.

See Scholarship Opportunities

AN IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT PAYMENTS

Due to health concerns over the Coronavirus, the Cashier's Office will be working remotely. They will unfortunately be unable to accept credit card payments over the phone during this time. This measure is being taken to protect both our staff and your information. You can make payments via MyInfo or through your Student Center.

Refunds

We know life sometimes gets in the way and you may have to withdraw from a course. As long as you do so by the withdrawal deadline, you will receive a tuition refund. If you withdraw from a course, you will be asked to return any textbooks with prepaid mailing label emailed to you.

Refunds for out-of-state students may also be subject to state law.

Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Withdrawal and a Drop?

A withdrawal from a class happens after the refund deadline and is not refundable. A Drop from a class happens before the refund deadline and is refundable. If you Withdraw from a class you will receive a “W” on your transcript. Please be sure to check with your Success Coach to review your refund deadlines and GPA impact before you decide to Withdraw or Drop a class.
When is my deadline to drop and still get a full refund?

You can review the Official Refund Schedule for the deadlines. You can also contact your Success Coach to determine your deadline.
If I drop a class that I paid for, will my refund be automatically mailed to me?

Some students like to apply their refund to their next class or an outstanding balance, so we don’t automatically process your refund. Call your Success Coach to request your refund.
I dropped my classes within the deadline but there is no refund credit on my account. Don’t I qualify for a refund?

Most likely you have chosen to accelerate your class to the 8-week option, which would mean you wouldn’t be getting a refund. However, if you don’t see your refund credit, contact your Success Coach for assistance.
Does my tuition get capped at 11 credits if I'm a military student?

No. While you do get a reduced rate of $215 per credit hour, military students and student veterans do not get a tuition cap.