As an education finance expert, I can provide you with a comprehensive answer regarding the cost of attending college for four years. The cost of college is a significant investment and varies greatly depending on several factors such as the type of institution, location, and whether the student is considered an in-state or out-of-state resident. Here's a breakdown of the average published yearly tuition and fees for different types of colleges:

1. **Public Two-Year College (in-district students)**: The average published yearly tuition and fees for in-district students at public two-year colleges is approximately $3,440. This is generally the most affordable option for students who are residents of the district in which the college is located.

2. **Public Four-Year College (in-state students)**: For in-state students attending a public four-year college, the average published yearly tuition and fees are around $9,410. This is a more expensive option than a two-year college but still relatively affordable compared to out-of-state or private institutions.

3. **Public Four-Year College (out-of-state students)**: Out-of-state students at public four-year colleges can expect to pay significantly more, with the average published yearly tuition and fees being $23,890. This is due to the fact that public colleges often charge higher tuition to non-residents to help subsidize the costs for in-state students.


4. Private Four-Year College: The most expensive option is attending a private four-year college, where the average published yearly tuition and fees are $32,410. Private colleges do not have the same state subsidies as public institutions, which often results in higher tuition costs.

To calculate the total cost of attending college for four years, you would multiply the yearly tuition and fees by four. Here's how that looks for each category:

- Public Two-Year College (in-district): $3,440 * 4 = $13,760
- Public Four-Year College (in-state): $9,410 * 4 = $37,640
- Public Four-Year College (out-of-state): $23,890 * 4 = $95,560
- Private Four-Year College: $32,410 * 4 = $129,640

It's important to note that these are just the base costs for tuition and fees. Additional expenses such as room and board, books, transportation, and personal expenses can significantly increase the overall cost. For example, room and board at a four-year institution can range from $10,000 to $15,000 per year, which would add another $40,000 to $60,000 to the total cost over four years.

Furthermore, these costs can vary widely depending on the specific college or university. Some institutions may have additional fees or offer scholarships and financial aid that can reduce the overall cost. It's also worth considering that the cost of attending college has been increasing over time, so the actual cost for a student starting college now may be higher than the averages listed here.

Lastly, it's crucial for students and their families to research and plan for college expenses well in advance. This can involve saving money, applying for financial aid, scholarships, and grants, and considering work-study programs or part-time employment to help offset the costs.

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According to the College Board, the average cost of tuition and fees for the 2017-C2018 school year was $34,740 at private colleges, $9,970 for state residents at public colleges, and $25,620 for out-of-state residents attending public universities.read more >>