How much does tuition cost at St. Olaf College. What are the housing and meal plan expenses. How can international students finance their education at St. Olaf. What transportation options are available for students.
Understanding St. Olaf College Tuition and Fees
St. Olaf College, a private liberal arts institution located in Northfield, Minnesota, offers a high-quality education with associated costs. In 2022, the college’s tuition was $54,650 per year, marking a 3.76% increase from the previous year’s $52,670. This rise aligns with the typical annual tuition increase of about 3% seen in many colleges.
However, it’s crucial to understand that the sticker price doesn’t always reflect the actual cost students pay. 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.
In-State vs. Out-of-State Tuition
As a private, religious institution, St. Olaf College maintains the same tuition rate for all students, regardless of their state of residence. This policy differs from public schools, which often offer lower tuition rates to in-state students due to state funding. For students considering their college options, this uniform tuition structure at St. Olaf eliminates the need to factor in residency status when calculating costs.
International Student Tuition
International students at St. Olaf College pay the same tuition as out-of-state students. While they may not qualify for U.S. government loans or grants, international students have access to other financial aid options, including:
- On-campus jobs
- St. Olaf College-specific loans
- St. Olaf College-specific scholarships
- Merit-based institutional scholarships (for those without financial need)
Housing and Meal Plans at St. Olaf College
Beyond tuition, students must consider additional costs associated with college life, particularly housing and meal plans. At St. Olaf College, the combined cost for housing and campus dining is $12,450 annually. This figure includes:
- On-campus housing expenses
- A comprehensive dining plan
For students who choose to live off-campus but wish to access campus dining facilities, a board-only meal plan is available for $5,930. The actual cost may vary based on the number of meals included in the chosen plan.
Additional Expenses: Books, Supplies, and Fees
When budgeting for college, it’s important to account for expenses beyond tuition and housing. These additional costs can significantly impact the overall financial picture for students.
Books and Supplies
The cost of textbooks and course materials often catches first-year students off guard. The actual expense depends on the specific courses taken and their required materials. To manage these costs, many students explore cost-saving strategies such as:
- Utilizing library resources
- Purchasing used books from fellow students
- Exploring digital textbook options
Annual Fees
Most colleges, including St. Olaf, charge additional fees to cover the maintenance and operation of various campus facilities, such as:
- Library
- Gymnasium
- Computer labs
Students should also be aware of potential costs associated with extracurricular activities, including joining fraternities or sororities, or participating in sports programs. Importantly, St. Olaf College offers resources to help students who may struggle financially to participate in these activities, aiming to make them accessible to all.
Transportation Considerations for St. Olaf Students
Transportation costs can vary significantly depending on individual circumstances and choices. When planning for transportation expenses at St. Olaf College, students should consider several factors:
- Mode of travel to and from campus (driving, flying, or public transportation)
- Availability and cost of on-campus parking
- Campus size and walkability
- Need for a personal vehicle or reliance on public transportation
St. Olaf College allows freshmen to park on campus, which can be a significant convenience for students who choose to bring a car. However, this also means factoring in costs such as parking fees, insurance, and vehicle maintenance.
Location Impact on Transportation
St. Olaf’s location in the small town of Northfield, Minnesota, near the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area, influences transportation considerations. While the small-town setting may offer easier local navigation, students might face higher costs when traveling to and from campus, especially those from more distant locations.
Personal Expenses and Budgeting for College Life
When creating a comprehensive college budget, it’s crucial not to overlook personal expenses. These can include:
- Entertainment
- Clothing
- Dorm room furnishings
- Personal care items
- Technology needs (laptops, software, etc.)
While these costs can vary widely based on individual lifestyles and preferences, they form an essential part of the overall college experience and should be factored into financial planning.
Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities at St. Olaf
St. Olaf College is committed to making education accessible through various financial aid options. These include:
- Merit-based scholarships
- Need-based grants
- Work-study programs
- Institutional loans
Prospective students are encouraged to explore all available financial aid opportunities and to communicate with St. Olaf’s financial aid office for personalized assistance. The college’s commitment to financial support can significantly reduce the actual cost of attendance for many students.
Navigating the College Cost Landscape
Understanding the full scope of college costs is crucial for effective financial planning. At St. Olaf College, as with many institutions, the total cost of attendance extends beyond just tuition. By considering all aspects – from tuition and housing to books, fees, and personal expenses – students and families can develop a comprehensive financial strategy.
Have you considered how financial aid might impact your total cost of attendance at St. Olaf College? The college’s financial aid packages can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses for many students. It’s advisable to apply for financial aid early and explore all available options, including scholarships, grants, and work-study programs.
Is campus housing a requirement at St. Olaf College? While many students choose to live on campus, especially in their first year, understanding the college’s housing policies and exploring off-campus options can impact your overall budget. Consider factors such as meal plans, transportation, and the social aspects of different living arrangements when making your decision.
Are you aware of the additional academic resources available at St. Olaf that might affect your budget? The college offers various academic support services, including tutoring and study groups, which are typically included in tuition costs. Utilizing these resources effectively can enhance your academic experience without incurring additional expenses.
Maximizing Your College Investment at St. Olaf
Attending St. Olaf College represents a significant investment in your future. To make the most of this investment, consider the following strategies:
- Engage fully in academic opportunities, including research projects and internships, which can enhance your educational experience and future career prospects.
- Participate in extracurricular activities that align with your interests and career goals, building valuable skills and networks.
- Utilize career services early and often to explore career paths, improve your resume, and connect with potential employers.
- Consider studying abroad through St. Olaf’s programs, which can provide unique cultural experiences and language skills.
- Take advantage of alumni networks and mentorship programs to gain insights into various career fields and create professional connections.
Do you know how to leverage St. Olaf’s career services to enhance your post-graduation prospects? The college’s career center offers resources such as resume workshops, job fairs, and alumni networking events. Engaging with these services early in your college career can lead to internships and job opportunities that maximize the return on your educational investment.
Have you explored the possibility of conducting research with faculty members at St. Olaf? Engaging in undergraduate research can provide valuable experience, potentially lead to publications, and make you a stronger candidate for graduate school or employment. Many of these opportunities come at no additional cost to students, offering a way to enhance your education within your existing budget.
Planning for Success: Long-Term Financial Considerations
While focusing on immediate college costs is important, it’s equally crucial to consider the long-term financial implications of your education at St. Olaf College. This includes:
- Potential earnings after graduation
- Student loan repayment plans
- Career advancement opportunities
- Graduate school prospects
St. Olaf’s strong liberal arts foundation prepares students for diverse career paths and graduate studies. When evaluating the cost of attendance, consider how your St. Olaf education might impact your future earning potential and career satisfaction.
Are you familiar with St. Olaf’s graduate outcomes data? Understanding the career paths and success rates of recent graduates can help you assess the potential return on your educational investment. The college’s career center can provide valuable information on job placement rates, average starting salaries, and popular industries for St. Olaf alumni.
Have you considered how your choice of major at St. Olaf might affect your financial future? While pursuing your passions is important, it’s also wise to research the job market and salary prospects for different fields of study. St. Olaf’s academic advisors and career counselors can help you balance your interests with practical career considerations.
Embracing the St. Olaf Experience: Beyond the Numbers
While understanding the financial aspects of attending St. Olaf College is crucial, it’s equally important to consider the intangible benefits of the St. Olaf experience. The college’s commitment to liberal arts education, strong sense of community, and emphasis on global perspective contribute to a transformative educational journey.
How can you quantify the value of the tight-knit community at St. Olaf? The college’s small class sizes and close student-faculty relationships foster an environment of personalized learning and mentorship. These connections can lead to valuable recommendations, research opportunities, and professional networks that extend far beyond graduation.
Are you aware of St. Olaf’s emphasis on ethical leadership and social responsibility? The college’s programs and initiatives in these areas prepare students to become thoughtful leaders and engaged citizens. While these qualities may not have an immediate monetary value, they contribute significantly to personal growth and long-term career success.
Have you considered the impact of St. Olaf’s global focus on your future prospects? The college’s robust study abroad programs and international perspectives in the curriculum prepare students for an increasingly globalized workforce. This international exposure can be a significant differentiator in many career paths, potentially leading to unique job opportunities and higher earning potential.
In conclusion, while navigating the costs associated with attending St. Olaf College requires careful planning and consideration, the value of the education and experiences gained extends far beyond the financial investment. By thoroughly understanding all aspects of college costs, exploring financial aid options, and maximizing the opportunities available at St. Olaf, students can make informed decisions that align with their educational goals and future aspirations.
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
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Visit the College Confidential forums to join the conversation about St Olaf College
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Emily T.|Alsip, IL
$15-25/hr
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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
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7 yrs exp
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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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$15-25/hr
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10 yrs exp
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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
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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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$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 🙂
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25 yrs old
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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.
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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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90 000 Travel and single tickets will rise in price again
“It was one of the best ideas that could come in head,” said Chancellor Olaf Scholz about a ticket for all public transport in Germany for 9 euros a 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.
