Founders Scholarship

The members of the 2024 entering class are part of a unique cohort of builders and innovators who will partner with University faculty and staff to help build America's next great university. In recognition of the significant vision, character, and commitment it takes to establish a new institution, each student admitted to the Fall 2024 incoming class will receive a scholarship covering the full cost of undergraduate tuition for four years (a value of approximately $130,000). For more information, including terms and conditions, see Founders Scholarship.

Lonsdale Magaro Build Scholarship

The University of Austin’s most prestigious scholarship identifies future leaders who embody the spirit of American exceptionalism and show outstanding promise as builders and innovators. Winners of the Lonsdale Magaro Build Scholarship receive a $100,000 merit scholarship, which is in addition to the four-year full tuition Founders Scholarship they receive as members of the Fall 2024 incoming class. For more information, including terms and conditions, see Lonsdale Magaro Build Scholarship.

Need-Based Financial Aid

At this time, students cannot use federal financial aid (e.g., Pell Grants, etc.) to pay costs of attendance here. Notwithstanding the University's efforts to keep education affordable and the four-year, full-tuition Founders Scholarship for the Fall 2024 entering class, the cost of attendance may still pose a challenge for some families.

The University is committed to working with students who receive an offer of admission to help them and their families meet demonstrated financial need. Specifically, the University will offer need-based grants and work-study (not federal work-study) for those students who are otherwise eligible for federal financial assistance. Details regarding how to apply for University financial aid awards will be provided to applicants who are offered admission.

Tuition and Estimated Cost of Attendance

At the University of Austin, we want to ensure that every dollar spent advances student education. Building a university from the ground up is an opportunity to re-examine legacy practices and to dramatically reduce administrative and other costs, ensuring funds are directed as much as possible to academics. The University’s financial model avoids administrative excess, prioritizes student experiences and outcomes, and keeps fees to a minimum.

Our innovative curriculum design integrates the liberal arts tradition with a groundbreaking approach to cultivating leadership and entrepreneurship. We take seriously the obligation to deliver this education at an affordable cost. Our graduates will be prepared to thrive both professionally and personally, not saddled with heavy debt burdens.

Please see the table below for an estimated cost of attendance per academic year for a full-time enrolled student.


Student Expenses
Tuition
Student Fees
Books and Supplies*
Housing*
Estimated Cost
$32,500
$1,050
$1,200
$16,500
Description
$10,833 per academic term
Fees all students must pay, additional fees may be incurred
Books, school supplies, and printouts
Mandatory shared housing for first- and second-year students
Personal Expenses^
Transportation*
Meals*
Miscellaneous*
Estimated Cost
$1,000
$6,000
$500
Description
Travel home and local transportation
Three meals a day (plus snacks)
Various personal expenses, e.g., clothing and recreation
Total Estimated Cost*
$58,750
*

Actual costs may vary.

^

The University of Austin student health insurance plan is not included in the standard estimated cost of attendance and is a separate, billable cost of approximately $3,600 if the student cannot demonstrate coverage by a comparable insurance plan. Note that all students must have effective coverage with a comparable health insurance policy for the entirety of the academic year.

apply now