How close is the expected student costs of living to the actual costs?

<p>The expected cost for this school year for freshman is about 26000, that includeds a double dorm, reg fees, personal, books and supplies, and food not covered by the res hall plan. How close is this to the actual cost, as experienced by current students?
god forbid is it lower than the actual? I know it depends, but would like to hear your stories.</p>

<p>For an in-state resident like me, it totaled up to about $21.5k for the year, including the food, and a double residence hall but health insurance waived. ~13k for Room and 8.5k for tuition. I'm not sure about OOS people but thats about it amounted to for me.</p>

<p>The student budgets on the financial aid website are pretty accurate. My expenses last year were within 5% of them.</p>

<p>For me it was also pretty much on target, maybe a little less in actual costs, even figuring in trips home to LA.</p>

<p>allrighty then. then i need to get 3k loan.</p>

<p>Well don't just get a loan until you really need it.</p>

<p>Travel varies widely and don't forget summer expenses if you are not going home</p>