Tuition and Aid
Paying for education can be overwhelming and our experienced staff is here to help you figure it all out: scholarships, loans, financial and student aid requirements, and more. We’ll help you make informed choices so you can focus more on other important steps in selecting the right school.
Cost of Attendance∗
| Program | 4-year OD | Accelerated OD (AODP) | Advanced Standing International (ASIP) | MS in Vision Science (stand-alone) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who this applies to | First-year, Class of 2029 | AODP: Class of 2028 (for 2025-2026) |
ASIP: Class of 2027 (for 2025-2026) |
MS: Class of 2027 (for 2025-2026) |
| Tuition | $49,852 | $68,202 | $68,202 | $24,926 |
| Fees and Equipment | $3,695 | $2,195 | $785 | $675 |
| Health Insurance | $3,512 | $4,491 | $4,491 | $3,512 |
| Est. Living Allowance | $24,680 | $32,000 | $32,000 | $24,680 |
∗All amounts for tuition and fees above are based on amounts for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Download Tuition and Fee details by year.
View Payment and Refund Policy.
Key Changes to Federal Loans
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBA) H.R. 1), included in the federal budget reconciliation package, (Public Law 119-21) and signed into law on July 4, 2025, made significant changes in federal student loan programs. The bill introduces several changes that directly impact graduate and professional students; the most significant impact of this bill appears to be for new loans, rather than existing borrowers.
Aid Eligibility & Applying
What options are available for financing your NECO education? Which do you qualify for? Find answers here, and with our helpful financial aid staff.
Have a Question?
Check our FAQ page for your answer. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, email or call us!
Funding Your Degree
You Have Options
At NECO, we believe that financial considerations should never stand in the way of your education and future in optometry. That’s why we offer a variety of funding options to help make your degree more affordable and accessible. From scholarships and federal aid to loan repayment options via the Sponsored Pathways program and work-study opportunities, NECO is committed to supporting you every step of the way as you invest in your career and your calling.
Noteworthy
-
85%
NECO students receive student aid.
-
$250,000
Given in scholarships each year.
-
$125k
Mean annual wage for optometrists.
Based on the 2020, Bureau of Labor Statistics
Applying for Financial Aid
Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for every year you want loans and/or work study. NECO’s Federal Code is 002164.
Contact Us
Let us answer your questions related to the financing of your education.
Financial Aid Office
Esther Bandoo-Gomes, Director of Financial Aid
Fax 617-587-5553