How much does it cost to attend St. Olaf College. What are the tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students. How do international students finance their education at St. Olaf. What additional expenses should students consider when budgeting for college.
St. Olaf College Tuition Overview: Understanding the Costs
St. Olaf College, a private liberal arts institution located in Northfield, Minnesota, offers a high-quality education with a corresponding price tag. In 2022, the college’s annual tuition was $54,650, marking a 3.76% increase from the previous year’s $52,670. This rise aligns with the typical annual tuition increase of about 3% observed in many colleges across the United States.
However, it’s crucial to understand that the sticker price doesn’t always reflect the actual cost of attendance. Many students find their expenses significantly reduced through various financial aid options, including grants, scholarships, and tuition discounts. Additionally, student loans can help manage college costs until graduation and employment.
Is the sticker price the final cost for all students?
No, the sticker price is often not the final cost for many students. Financial aid packages can substantially reduce the out-of-pocket expenses for eligible students. It’s essential to explore all available options and consult with the college’s financial aid office to get a more accurate picture of your potential costs.
In-State vs. Out-of-State Tuition: What’s the Difference?
Unlike public institutions, St. Olaf College, being a private religious institution, does not differentiate between in-state and out-of-state tuition rates. This means that students from Minnesota pay the same tuition as those from other states or countries.
While this policy might seem disadvantageous to Minnesota residents who could potentially benefit from in-state tuition rates at public colleges, it creates a level playing field for all domestic students. This approach can be particularly attractive for out-of-state students who might find St. Olaf more affordable compared to out-of-state tuition at public universities in their home states.
Do any students benefit from reduced tuition rates at St. Olaf?
While there’s no difference in tuition rates based on residency, St. Olaf College offers various merit-based and need-based scholarships that can significantly reduce the cost of attendance for eligible students, regardless of their state of origin.
International Student Tuition: Equal Opportunities, Different Challenges
St. Olaf College maintains its policy of equal tuition rates for international students, charging them the same amount as out-of-state domestic students. This approach demonstrates the college’s commitment to diversity and global education. However, international students face unique financial challenges when studying in the United States.
Unlike domestic students, international students typically do not qualify for federal financial aid programs. This limitation can make financing their education more challenging. However, St. Olaf College offers several options to support international students:
- On-campus jobs
- St. Olaf College-specific loans
- St. Olaf College-specific scholarships
Additionally, international students without demonstrated financial need may be eligible for merit-based institutional scholarships, providing further opportunities to offset the cost of education.
How can international students best prepare for financing their education at St. Olaf?
International students should start by researching and applying for St. Olaf College-specific scholarships well in advance. They should also explore external scholarship opportunities from their home countries or international organizations. Contacting the college’s international student office for guidance on financial planning and work opportunities can also be incredibly helpful.
Beyond Tuition: Additional Costs at St. Olaf College
When budgeting for college, it’s crucial to look beyond tuition and consider other associated expenses. At St. Olaf College, these additional costs play a significant role in the overall financial picture:
Room and Board
Housing and campus dining at St. Olaf College costs $12,450 annually. This figure includes the expense of living in dormitories or other on-campus housing, as well as a meal plan that provides access to campus dining facilities. For students who choose to live off-campus but want to utilize campus dining services, a board-only meal plan is available for $5,930.
Books and Supplies
The cost of textbooks and other course materials can be a significant expense for college students. While the exact amount varies depending on the courses taken and the required materials, it’s an important factor to consider in the overall budget.
Can students reduce their textbook expenses?
Yes, students can employ several strategies to lower their textbook costs:
- Utilize the college library for required texts
- Purchase used books from previous students
- Explore digital textbook options, which are often cheaper
- Rent textbooks instead of buying them outright
Annual Fees
Most colleges, including St. Olaf, charge additional fees to cover the costs of maintaining facilities such as libraries, gyms, and computer labs. These fees contribute to the overall campus experience and resources available to students.
Transportation Costs: Navigating Campus and Beyond
Transportation expenses can vary significantly depending on individual circumstances. Factors to consider include:
- Distance from home to campus
- Preferred mode of transportation (car, public transit, flying)
- Campus size and layout
- Parking fees (St. Olaf allows freshmen to park on campus)
St. Olaf College’s location in the small town of Northfield, Minnesota, near the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area, offers both advantages and challenges in terms of transportation. While the campus itself may be easy to navigate, students from farther away might face higher costs for traveling to and from school.
How can students minimize transportation costs at St. Olaf?
Students can reduce transportation expenses by:
- Utilizing public transportation options when available
- Carpooling with fellow students for longer trips
- Taking advantage of any college-provided shuttle services
- Considering bicycle options for navigating the campus and local area
Personal Expenses: The Often Overlooked Costs
When creating a comprehensive college budget, it’s essential to account for personal expenses. These can include:
- Entertainment and social activities
- Clothing
- Personal care items and toiletries
- Technology (laptop, smartphone, etc.)
- Laundry services
- Snacks and off-campus meals
While these expenses might seem minor compared to tuition and housing costs, they can add up quickly over the course of an academic year. Developing a realistic budget that includes these personal expenses can help students avoid financial stress and manage their resources more effectively.
How can students manage their personal expenses effectively?
To keep personal expenses in check, students can:
- Create and stick to a monthly budget
- Take advantage of free campus events and activities
- Use student discounts when available
- Cook meals in dorm kitchens instead of eating out frequently
- Share costs with roommates for common items
Financial Aid and Scholarships: Making St. Olaf Affordable
Given the significant costs associated with attending St. Olaf College, understanding and leveraging financial aid opportunities is crucial for many students. The college offers a range of financial aid options, including:
- Merit-based scholarships
- Need-based grants
- Work-study programs
- Student loans
St. Olaf College is committed to making education accessible to qualified students, regardless of their financial circumstances. The college’s financial aid office works with students and families to create individualized aid packages that can significantly reduce the out-of-pocket cost of attendance.
What steps should prospective students take to maximize their financial aid opportunities?
To optimize financial aid prospects, students should:
- Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as possible
- Research and apply for St. Olaf-specific scholarships
- Explore external scholarship opportunities
- Maintain strong academic performance to qualify for merit-based aid
- Communicate openly with the financial aid office about any special circumstances or changes in financial situation
Long-Term Value: Assessing the Return on Investment
While the costs associated with attending St. Olaf College may seem daunting, it’s important to consider the long-term value of the education and experiences gained. Factors to consider when evaluating the return on investment include:
- Quality of education and academic programs
- Career preparation and job placement rates
- Alumni network and connections
- Personal growth and development opportunities
St. Olaf College’s strong liberal arts curriculum, combined with its emphasis on global perspective and ethical leadership, aims to prepare students for success in a rapidly changing world. The college’s outcomes data, including employment rates and graduate school admissions, can provide insights into the potential long-term benefits of a St. Olaf education.
How can students maximize the value of their St. Olaf education?
To get the most out of their investment, students should:
- Engage fully in academic and extracurricular opportunities
- Utilize career services and internship programs
- Build relationships with faculty and alumni
- Participate in study abroad or off-campus programs
- Develop transferable skills through leadership roles and community engagement
In conclusion, while the cost of attending St. Olaf College is substantial, a comprehensive understanding of the expenses involved, coupled with strategic use of financial aid and scholarship opportunities, can make this prestigious institution accessible to a wide range of students. By carefully considering all aspects of the college experience and its potential long-term benefits, prospective students and their families can make informed decisions about investing in a St. Olaf education.
St. Olaf College – College Confidential
In 2022, St. Olaf College’s tuition was $54,650 a year.
In 2022, tuition increased 3.76%–from $52,670 the prior year. Usually, colleges raise tuition about 3% each year.
If these numbers sound impossible, remember, the displayed price of tuition does not tell the full story. Many students find the actual cost of college is way less than the sticker price after grants, scholarships, and tuition discounts kick in. Plus, student loans can make theprice of collegemore manageable until you’ve finishing school and found a job.
In-state vs. Out-of-state Tuition at St. Olaf College
St. Olaf College is a private, religious institution, so it has the same tuition for students from Minnesota as it does for students who live in other states.
Public schools receive funds from the state to help them cover costs. These institutions offer a lower cost of attendance for those who qualify as Minnesota residents.
Choosing a college where you qualify for in-state tuition can save on the total cost of attending college. Don’t forget to confirm your state’s requirements for in-state residency. Every state has its own rules about what makes someone eligible for in-state tuition. In many states, students must have lived in the state for 12 months before starting school to qualify for in-state tuition. There may be other criteria as well, depending on where you live.
Explore other Minnesota colleges
St. Olaf College International Student Tuition
St Olaf College has the same tuition for international students as for those from out of state.
Students from outside of the U.S. usually do not qualify for for loans or grants from the U.S. government, but may be eligible for private or school-specific aid and scholarships. International students with need may qualify for the following types of financial support at St Olaf College:
•On-campus jobs
•St Olaf College-specific loans
•St Olaf College-specific scholarships
International students without financial need may be eligible for merit-based institutional scholarships.
St. Olaf College Room, Board, Fees, and More
In addition to the cost of tuition, there are other costs associated with college, like room and board, facility fees, and books and supplies. Let’s take a look at what impacts these costs, and what to expect at St Olaf College.
House and Food Costs at St Olaf College
Housing and campus dining at St Olaf College costs $12,450 a year. This number includes the cost of living in dorms or other on-campus housing, and a dining plan that allows you to eat all or some of your meals the school dining facilities. Students who live off campus but would like to be able to eat in the campus dining can choose to be on a meal plan. The cost of a mean plan, or board-only, is $5,930.
Board costs vary based on on the numnber of meals you intend to eat on-campus
How Much Do Books Cost at St Olaf College?
The cost of books often surprises first-year college students. The actual cost of books and supplies depends on the courses you take and what kinds of books and materials they require. To save money, many students choose to use books from the library or buy books from students who have already taken the course.
Annual Fees
The majority of colleges also have fees to offsets cost associated with maintaining facilties, like the library, gym and computer labs.
Keep in mind, there could also be other costs associated with participating in special activities, like joining a fraternity or sorority, or participating in sports or other extracurriculars. Most colleges have resources so that those who may struggle to participate because of cost can find ways to lower or eliminate these fees.
Planes, Trains, and Automobiles: Transportation costs at St Olaf College
The cost of transportation in college can really vary. Will you drive, fly, or take public transportation to school? Is on-campus parking free, or will you need to budget for parking? Is the campus small enough that you can easily walk from class-to-class?? Do you plan to bring a car or will you need to use public transportation? All of these factors can drastically impact your transportation budget. At St Olaf College, freshman are allowed to park on campus.
Where are a college is located can impact transportation costs. Small, rural schools may be easier to get around, but the cost of getting to campus may be higher. On the flip side, getting around in an urban area could be expensive, but there may be more buses, trains and low-cost flight options to actually get to school. The St. Olaf College campus is located in a small town setting in Minnesota, near Minneapolis-St. Paul.
Other Costs
When creating a budget for college, don’t forget to consider personal expenses, like entertainment, clothes, furnishings and toiletries.
Total Tuition and Expenses at St. Olaf College
Now, let’s do a rundown of all of the costs associated with college, to get a better idea of what is really costs to go to St Olaf College.
Total Cost of St Olaf College
What will the cost of attending St Olaf College be? Here is a breakdown of tuition and expenses.
2022 Total Tuition and Expenses | |
---|---|
Tuition | $54,650 |
Room and Board | $12,450 |
Board Only | $12,450 |
Other expenses | $900 |
The total estimated cost will vary depending on whether you are going to live on-campus or off-campus.
Total Estimated Costs | |
---|---|
On-Campus | $69,000 |
Off-Campus | $69,000 |
The breakdowns above provide a good estimate of the total cost of attendance before financial aid and scholarships. Tuition and fees may vary depending on program, course level, location, and more.
St Olaf College’s tuition and fees change based on:
•Course load for part-time students
St. Olaf College Financial Aid
The majority of St Olaf College undergrads use financial aid to to cover the cost of tuition. In 2022, 2,224 of the 2,988 undergrads enrolled received financial aid. St Olaf College meets 95% of the demonstrated financial need for undergraduates.
The average financial aid package for a full-time, first-year student is around $49,910 a year. Around 63% of St Olaf College undergrads take out student loans to cover any remaining costs. St Olaf College graduates who have student loans graduate with an average of $27,797 of student loan debt.
The average debt for each loan type varies.
Average Debt By Loan Type | |
---|---|
Federal Loans | $53,052 |
State Loans | $22,867 |
St Olaf College-Specific Loans | $9,070 |
Private Loans | $38,305 |
Most Common Loans for St Olaf College Students | |
---|---|
Federal Loans | 55% |
State loans | 2% |
Institutional Loans | 8% |
Private loans | 11% |
Most students take out institutional or government loans, because they tend to have lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options than private loans. Loans from the federal government can be subsidized or unsubsidized. Subsidized loans do not accrue interest during school, while unsubsidized loans begin accruing interest at the time the loan is issued. If students do no qualify for enough federal loans to cover the cost of tuition, some take out private loans. Parents can also take out ParentPLUS loans, which are government loans for parents who are helping their children pay for college.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) helps colleges determine how much financial need students and their familes have, so they can offer a financial aid package that meets, or come close to meeting, their need. For more information on St Olaf College financial aid, keep reading, or visit their financial aid website.
Scholarships at St. Olaf College
Some students may receive grants and scholarships to help pay for college. Unlike loans, scholarships and grants do not have to be paid back.
In 2022, St Olaf College awarded 2,224 need-based scholarships to students, giving away total of $95. 6 million to help students with financial need cover the cost of school. An additional $16.2 million in merit-based scholarship money was awarded to students without demonstrated financial need.
Net Cost of St. Olaf College
The net price of college is the actual cost of attending a school for one year. Net cost is calculated by subtracting any scholarships, grants or other aid that does not need to be paid back from the total cost. Student loans are not part of the calculation, because they need to be repaid.
Now that we have a sense of the total estimated costs for St Olaf College students, we can subtract the average financial aid package to find the estimated net cost. Net cost can vary depending on a students’ need and the financial aid award received.
When considering whether a school fits your budget, it is important to consider the estimated net cost, not just the sticker price of tuition. Often, schools with the highest tuition also offer the most generous aid packages, so estimate your net cost before eliminating a school because it does fit your budget.
The average amount of financial aid received by a full-time first year student with demonstrated need at St Olaf College was $49,910 in 2022. By substracting the average financial aid package from the estimated costs, we get a number that may make the cost of St Olaf College seem more manageable.
Estimated Net Cost for Full-Time Students | |
---|---|
On-Campus | $19,090 |
Off-Campus | $19,090 |
What will attending St Olaf College really cost you? The answer depends on several factors.
As of 2011, colleges are required to have a net price calculator on their website to help prospective students and their families get a better idea of the actual cost of attending that school, based on their financial situation. You can find the St Olaf College’s net cost calculator on their website.
St. Olaf College Tuition Payment Plans
Some students choose to use payment plans to make the cost of tuition fit more comfortably in their budget.
St Olaf College offers an Installment Payment Plan, which allows students to pay tuition in a series of smaller chunks instead of one lump sum.
St Olaf College Tuition Waivers
Schools sometimes waiver tuition for certain groups, to make attending more affordable. Some schools offer tuition waivers for employees and their family members, underrepresented students, or military students. Even if you qualify for a waiver, students are usually responsible for housing, meal plans, and other expenses.
St Olaf College has some full or partial tuition waivers available for:
– Employees or Children of Employees
Check the financial aid website for more information on payment plans and tuition waivers.
Learn More About St. Olaf College
Click below to find out more about the admissions requirements and deadlines, student life, academics, majors and more.
Overview
Student Life
Academics
Admissions
Visit the College Confidential forums to join the conversation about St Olaf College
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Emily T.|Alsip, IL
$15-25/hr
•
21 yrs old
I am enrolled at St. Olaf College with a B. A. in Social Work and Individual Major (Law, Order, and the Criminal Mind). I am committed to further education in social work and law, with an aspiration to work in family or criminal law with an emphasis on child well-being. I would love to continue my education with a J. D. and M. S. W. dual-degree! When I am not at school or work, I enjoy spending time with family and my dogs, participating in extracurriculars (of which there are many!), and relaxing with some good books or shows. I am always open to opportunities that will advance my education, expand my professional background, and allow for connections and networking.
I love working and volunteering with seniors, especially being able to listen to their stories and experience! I’d love to chat more about it 🙂
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Antoniya Z.
|Minneapolis, MN
$25-25/hr
•
7 yrs exp
•
22 yrs old
Fun Sitter With Healthcare Background
My name is Toni, I just graduated from St. Olaf College where I studied Biology/Neuroscience. I am now taking a gap year before going to medical school. I have 7 years of experience working with children. I can help with Travel (I have a car) , Grocery Shopping, House Keeping, doing a bunch of activities with the kiddos, and helping with any academic materials. I have experience working as an emergency medical technician, senior dementia care, and was also a swim instructor for multiple years. I look forward to getting to know you!
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Sarah C.|Saint Paul, MN
$15-25/hr
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10 yrs exp
•
27 yrs old
Fun, Creative And Energetic Sitter!
Responds within a day
I have many years experience in child care of all ages. I have been a teacher in France for the last three years and just recently relocated back to MN where I am from. I love doing art, being outside and have lots of energy and creative ideas.
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Clare F.|Wilmette, IL
$16-20/hr
•
3 yrs exp
•
26 yrs old
Clare
Hello! I recently moved from Minnesota to Wilmette Il to start a speech language pathology masters program at Northwestern University. I worked as a nanny over the summer during undergrad. I am also the oldest in my family, so I have lots of experience caring for children of all ages. After my undergraduate program, I worked as a clinical assistant supervisor to gain healthcare experience prior to starting grad school. Along with caring for your child, I am open to helping with homework, cooking, and pick up/drop off, etc. Due to my varying school schedule, I am looking to be an occasional sitter, perfect for date nights.
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Asmae B.|Saint Paul, MN
$16-25/hr
Hi there! My name is Asmae and I live in Eagan. My strengths are discipline and efficiency. I’m a detail-oriented housekeeper and home-organizer with more than two years of experience performing daily housekeeping operations, including maintaining optimal cleanliness, client service and product-quality standards. My work is done with a lot of care. I work best with a checklist/to-do list. My schedule is pretty flexible as of right now, so feel free to reach out!
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Megan D.|San Diego, CA
$21-28/hr
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5 yrs exp
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26 yrs old
Flexible Child Care Provider And Tutor
Hi! I am a reliable and personable 25yo female seeking work as a part-time nanny and tutor. I currently work as a research coordinator at a neurodevelopmental disorders lab and plan to pursue graduate education in psychology. I have several years experience working with kids of all ages and in many capacities: past jobs include a tennis coach and cabin counselors for autistic kids and teens, as well as 3 years as a reading & math tutor at an after-school care program. In working with children and families, I value communication, organization, and embracing the humor in life!
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Adrienne B.
|Fort Collins, CO
$20-35/hr
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5 yrs exp
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24 yrs old
Extensive Experience In Caregiving Roles!
I am an empathetic, kind, patient, and FUN person who is passionate about providing excellent care to those I serve 🙂
I have done extensive work in caregiving fields, including:
– Working in adult group home environment for adults with mental disabilities including autism and Down syndrome
– Working as a nanny for multiple private families with children ages 2-12 over multiple years
– Working as a Behavior Technician in clinical setting for children ages 2-8 with autism
– Working 1+ year in residential mental health treatment center for adults with acute mental illness, focusing on eating disorders but including comorbid disorder of substance abuse, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, dissociative disorders, etc.
– Serving as a member and then president of Assisted Living Volunteer Group for 4 years
– Serving as caregiver for own grandparents – errands, transportation, mobility, companionship
– I have extensive experience pet-sitting as well and LOVE all animals
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Lauren H.
|Greenwood, IN
$12-17/hr
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25 yrs old
Hi My Name Is Lauren!
Lauren is a fun-loving, bilingual babysitter who loves kids. She has over 5 years of experience taking care of children anywhere between 3 and 14. When she’s with them she loves taking them to parks, playing games, watching movies, or baking their favorite treats.
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Lukas L.|Salt Lake City, UT
$30-50/hr
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24 yrs old
Tutor -> Youth Minister -> Wall Street Analyst -> Tutor
Hello! I am a 22-year-old Wall Street analyst looking to return to my roots: helping youth. In college, I worked as a writing tutor and youth ministry coordinator. A sudden career change led me to work for an investment bank, but I’ve recently been looking for opportunities to reenter the education sector.
I worked as a college writing tutor for three years, and my finance career has supplemented my liberal arts education, particularly in mathematics. I also love working with youth! I’ve helped educate young people in kindergarten, high school, and everywhere in between, and I can honestly say I’ve enjoyed working with every age group and demographic.
I also ran track and cross country in college; if you want to talk sports, hit me up 🙂
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Elizabeth T.|New York, NY
$16-26/hr
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5 yrs exp
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24 yrs old
Hi Families! I am an experienced nanny and tutor who has worked with a wide variety of children from varying age groups. I have recently graduated from college where I worked as a tutor while getting my degree. I am looking to gain more experience working with children as I prepare for a career as an educator. I am creative, flexible, and energetic, so If you have playful kids who need someone to keep up, I am your girl!
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Travel and single tickets will rise in price again
“It was one of the best ideas that could come to mind,” said Chancellor Olaf Scholz about a ticket for all public transport in Germany for 9 euros per month. At the end of August, the ticket expires, and in the fall and winter, prices for trams, buses, trains and subways will rise – and not only because of the end of the federal “bounty”. The association of German transport companies VDV calculated that 21 million tickets were sold in June, and 17 million in July. Statistics found that there were fewer traffic jams in large cities in Germany during these months.
Scholz has already described the results of using the ticket as a success, as discounts have helped to demonstrate the possibilities of public transport and identify weaknesses. The Chancellor has promised that the ticket will be continued in one form or another, and Transport Minister Volker Wissing is now consulting with the Länder on this matter. According to Berlin, the tariff system in Germany is too complicated – more uniform rules are needed and fewer regional transport companies with their own prices, requirements and restrictions. A specific promise that the validity of the ticket for 9the euro will be extended, the Chancellor did not give.
The Greens have developed a whole concept that provides for the emergence of a regional pass for 29 euros and valid throughout the country for 49 euros. It is proposed to finance them by abolishing privileges in the taxation of official cars that are provided to enterprises – at the same time, this will also reduce carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere. Earlier, Finance Minister Christian Lindner ruled out that the government would allocate any more funds to the project in addition to the already spent 2.5 billion euros. There is no money for such purposes, and the desire to have cheap public transport, according to Lindner, is a manifestation of “the desire to get everything for free, following the example of an unconditional basic income.”
The head of the Ministry of Finance recalled that every euro allocated for an artificially cheaper ticket was taken from the pocket of those who do not have a railway station nearby and who have no other option than to use a car. However, assistance was also provided to these categories of citizens – for the same three summer months, the state subsidized discounts on gasoline and diesel fuel by reducing the tax on them. This decision had severe critics, who believed that in this way the state helps not only those who really need support, but also those who are well provided for. Now both those and other indulgences are expiring. Car owners will once again experience a price shock at gas stations, and public transport passengers will experience all the delights of a tariff policy that knows no concessions.
Consumer advocates insist that the 9-euro ticket needs to be continued. Those who have managed to get used to it will be severely disappointed in the autumn – the cost of using public transport will rise sharply, due, among other things, to rising energy prices. From September, for the same 9 euros, many transport companies will only be able to buy a day ticket. It is expected not just a return to the usual tariffs, but their increase in autumn or winter.
There are more than 120 transport associations and companies in Germany with their own extensive tariff system. A survey of large enterprises conducted by dpa showed that the majority are planning an increase in ticket prices or have already decided on new, higher fares. For example, prices for public transport in Stuttgart will increase by 4.9 from January% is lower than the increase in costs, the local transport company VVS emphasizes. Since March, its young customers can purchase an annual ticket for all types of transport for 365 euros, but this is the maximum discount that the company can provide on its own. “We are not the only ones now facing serious financial problems due to the galloping growth in energy prices,” VVS says. Additional budgetary funds are needed at least to maintain the existing offer, regardless of the new cheap ticket.
RMV, the transport association of the Rhine-Main region (Frankfurt, Wiesbaden and many neighboring cities), increased fares by 3.9% back in July. In Nuremberg, tickets will rise in price by 3% from the new year, and the planned annual ticket for 365 euros will not appear – the city does not have enough funds to finance it. The Munich company MVG will also increase its tariffs, by how much is still unknown. The transport association of Berlin and Brandenburg VBB is likely to raise prices by 5.6% from 2023 – they plan to focus on a certain index that takes into account the growth in consumer prices, the cost of fuel and electricity, which will become an important, but not the only criterion when calculating new tariffs.
More optimistic news came from North Rhine-Westphalia, where there will be its own, albeit significantly reduced, continuation of the ticket for 9 euros. Subscription holders will be able to use them not only within their city and transport company, but throughout the world – but only on weekends and holidays in September and October. Local companies are ready to continue the operation of a single cheap ticket – provided that again someone fully bears all the expenses. “The first priority for regional transport companies is to be able to make ends meet,” says VRS, which serves Cologne, Bonn and the surrounding area.
Not the cancellation of the ticket for 9 euros, but more important long-term factors – fuel, energy, wage growth – will lead to an increase in tariffs. An almost universal rise in prices for buses and subways was fearfully expected even before the artificially cheap ticket came into force. Transport companies usually change rates every year or every few years, and now they simply cannot cope with their own growing costs for fuel, maintenance and personnel. Transport Minister Wissing said that the government, which took full responsibility for the costs of 9-euro ticket, may consider further financing of any regional or state transport programs only if the states themselves agree to take part in their payment. It is expected that in October a working group of representatives from the center and the states will make the first proposals on the prospects for the development of public transport in Germany and the future pricing policy.