Denison University has announced the launch of a new pricing model that caps contributions toward tuition based on total family income, giving families additional clarity and predictability early in their college search process.
Beginning with students entering in fall 2027, The Denison Commitment guarantees eligible families will pay no more than a set percentage of their income toward tuition. Families with total incomes of $100,000 or less will pay $0 toward tuition.
The initiative addresses one of the biggest challenges families face during the college search: understanding college costs before deciding whether to apply.
“Too often, families make assumptions about whether a top-tier college like Denison is within financial reach before fully understanding the aid available to them,” said President Adam Weinberg. “The Denison Commitment provides clarity earlier in the process and ensures more students can consider the powerful combination of a rigorous education, personalized mentorship, and career preparation that defines the Denison experience.”
The Denison Commitment sets the following maximum tuition contributions based on family income. Families earning:
- $100,000 or less will pay $0 toward tuition
- $100,001 to $200,000 will pay no more than 5% of income toward tuition
- $200,001 to $300,000 will pay no more than 10% of income toward tuition
- $300,001 to $400,000 will pay no more than 15% of income toward tuition
In addition, Denison’s new online tool lets prospective students and families directly calculate their tuition cost and aid package based on total family income.
Denison’s new initiative coincides with a period of significant growth and momentum. The university is rising in national rankings, applications remain strong, student-athletes have achieved a record four NCAA championships in a single year, and alumni giving has set a record for the third consecutive year.
As students and their families begin their college search much earlier today than in the past, The Denison Commitment helps to remove cost uncertainty.
“The Denison Commitment provides families the confidence to explore a college where they find true fit. A college that aligns students’ academic and social interests and sets them up to build successful and fulfilling lives,” said Meghan Huston Ulsh ’12, vice president for enrollment management.
Denison has earned national recognition for connecting a world-class liberal arts education with innovative career preparation. Through close relationships with faculty mentors, hands-on learning opportunities, and the support of a global alumni network, students graduate prepared to build meaningful lives and successful careers.
For many years, Denison has been meeting 100% of each student’s demonstrated financial need. The Denison Commitment furthers the school’s commitment to affordability and is made possible through the generosity of alumni, families, and supporters who continue to invest in the college’s future.
“Generations of Denisonians have experienced the lifelong value of a Denison education,” Weinberg said. “Their commitment helps ensure future students have access to the same transformative opportunities while strengthening Denison for generations to come.”
Tuition at Denison covers more than families might expect. A semester abroad is covered by the tuition they’ve already paid. Additionally, the university funds more than $1 million annually in internship stipends, so that all internships can be paid internships. Plus, Kaplan credentialing courses and career support through Denison’s nationally recognized Knowlton Center for Career Exploration are available after graduation.
Families can learn more about The Denison Commitment and connect with an admission counselor at denison.edu/commitment.
