The University of Oklahoma offers students an incredible range of free or low-cost resources, from involvement with more than 500 student organizations to financial guidance through the MidFirst Bank MoneyCoach Program.
These opportunities allow students to make the most of their time on campus without stretching their budgets. Still, college comes with expenses that are harder to avoid — like emergencies, travel, personal needs, and extracurriculars that require additional funds. Thinking ahead now can help you and your student decide what matters most and how to plan for it.
More than 30% of OU students participate in Greek Life. Membership offers friendships, leadership opportunities, and involvement in service and philanthropy, but it can also come with additional costs, such as fees, dues, and housing costs. Fee exemptions are available for students facing financial hardship or other specific, extenuating circumstances that may impact their ability to fulfill OU’s Greek Fee obligation. Students who qualify for Pell Grants or Oklahoma's Promise will have the Greek Fee waived, provided they complete the exemption application and submit the required documentation. The total expected cost of Greek Life varies based upon the student’s governing council. Explore annual costs averages by visiting Greek Life’s Financial Information page.
About 25% of OU students engage with global opportunities throughout their academic career. With programs available through every college, students can tailor their experience. Many of our study abroad programs charge OU tuition and fees and allow students to utilize their tuition waivers, scholarships, and financial aid. Students can work with their study abroad advisor and the Student Financial Center to make sure they are taking all necessary steps to choose a program that corresponds to their financial aid resources. Additionally, OU and our partners around the world offer many scholarships specifically for studying abroad. To be considered for Education Abroad scholarships, students will complete the Education Abroad Scholarship Application through the Centralized Academic Scholarship Hub (CASH). Explore our programs to find specific details such as budget, courses, dates and more.
OU students receive free admission to all sports except football, though ticket processes vary. Student football season tickets go on sale for incoming students in August. Men’s basketball games are free for students, but require students to claim a free ticket in advance. All other sporting events allow free entry with a student ID. For exact dates and the most current ticketing information, visit SoonerSports.com. If your student plans to travel to away games or major rivalry matchups, be sure there’s a budget for transportation, lodging, food, and tickets.
Oklahoma weather ranges from extremely hot to freezing, often within the same semester. Students should plan for a wardrobe that can handle rain, ice, heat, and everything in between. If purchasing new clothing isn’t feasible, the OU Food Pantry provides free options for both every day and professional wear.
About 25% of OU students engage with global opportunities throughout their academic career. With programs available through every college, students can tailor their experience. Many of our study abroad programs charge OU tuition and fees and allow students to utilize their tuition waivers, scholarships, and financial aid. Students can work with their study abroad advisor and the Student Financial Center to make sure they are taking all necessary steps to choose a program that corresponds to their financial aid resources. Additionally, OU and our partners around the world offer many scholarships specifically for studying abroad. To be considered for Education Abroad scholarships, students will complete the Education Abroad Scholarship Application through the Centralized Academic Scholarship Hub (CASH). Explore our programs to find specific details such as budget, courses, dates and more.
Whether home is 30 minutes away or across the country, travel can be one of the biggest common costs. Consider how often your student plans to return home and what that travel typically costs. Students who bring a car to campus will need a parking permit; those who wish to skip the permit can park free at Lloyd Noble Center and ride campus shuttles to class.
Textbooks, devices, and supplies vary by class. Renting textbooks or buying used can significantly reduce costs. Computer labs are available across campus for students who need them. The Loveridge Computer Lab within the Bizzell Memorial Library offers several computers with a variety of software for use, along with multiple scanners and printers. The library also provides free access to selected high enrollment course textbooks and calculators.
Meal plans cover many daily needs, but students should still budget for unexpected expenses like medical visits or unforeseen emergencies. Building a small emergency fund can make a big difference. For students who may need supplemental toiletries, additional budgeting can help cover extra costs, or students can use the OU Food Pantry, which offers free toiletries to the OU community.
From concerts in Oklahoma City to hiking in the Wichita Mountains, there’s plenty to do. Many activities are free or low cost, but students should still set aside a portion of their budget for fun with friends.
The MidFirst Bank MoneyCoach Program offers your student financial education through workshops and one-on-one meetings, helping them build strong budgeting habits, understand credit, and create a financial plan for college. To help manage college costs, many students work part time. Campus positions can often offer flexibility and understanding when it comes to student schedules. Students who work 25 or more hours per week during the academic year may also qualify for OU’s Work Assistance Tuition Waiver, which helps reduce the cost of tuition. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, and pursuing scholarships throughout the year is also encouraged. Once enrolled, your student can explore a wide range of awards through the Centralized Academic Scholarship Hub (CASH), where college-wide, departmental, and campus scholarship applications are all housed in one place.
