Paying for college is an important part of planning for your future. At Heartland, we want to make it easier to understand what college may cost and the resources available to help you pay.
Whether you're exploring Heartland for the first time or getting ready to enroll, start here to learn about tuition and costs, financial aid and scholarships, and payment options.
Tuition
Tuition for credit courses is based on District 540 Residency Status. Rates below are for Academic Year 2026-2027 (Summer 2026, Fall 2026, and Spring 2027 Semesters).
In-district: $174 per credit hour
Out-of-district: $348 per credit hour
Out-of-state: $435 per credit hour
Out-of-country tuition: $435 per credit hour
Universal Required Fees
The following fees are required for all students enrolled in credit courses, regardless of Residency State.
The Program Development and Facilities Enhancement Fee (PDFE Fee) helps fund costs associated with developing and updating academic programs and enhancing facilities including buildings and equipment.
PDFE Fee: $2 per credit hour
The Student Life Fee helps fund activities that enhance student life such as student groups, activities and organizations, athletic teams, and bus transportation.
Student Life Fee: $16 per credit hour
Other Fees
Course Fees may be required for special materials, supplies, or services for specific courses. These fees are generally charged to classes with labs or those that require other specialized facilities and/or equipment.
Continuing Education Fees are set on a per-course basis and more information can be found on Heartland's Continuing Education website.
*Please note: Tuition and Fees are subject to change without notice.
Student Estimated Expenses (Academic Year 2026-2027)
Direct Costs: This table provides an overview of tuition and universal fees for in-district, out-of-district, out-of-state, and out-of-country students, based on taking 30 credit hours per year.
Direct Costs*
In-District
Out-of-District
Out-of-State
Out-of-Country
Tuition
$5,220
$10,440
$13,050
Universal Fees
$540
$540
$540
Total Direct Costs
$5,760
$10,980
$13,590
* Direct costs are based on the average student taking 30 credit hours per year.
Indirect Costs: This table outlines estimated living expenses such as housing, course materials, personal costs, and transportation for dependent and independent students.
Indirect Costs
Living With Parent(s)
Living Away From Parent(s)
Housing & Food
$4,878
$12,518
Course Materials (Textbooks)
$1,300
$1,300
Miscellaneous/Personal
$873
$873
Transportation
$1,712
$1,712
Total Indirect Costs
$8,763
$17,276
Total Cost of Attendance: This table provides an overall view of the total costs for dependent and independent students, considering both direct and indirect expenses.
Heartland Community College offers a tuition waiver for district residents age 65 and older who enroll in eligible credit courses, based on seat availability.
The waiver covers tuition, but students are responsible for applicable course fees, textbooks, and supplies.
For questions about eligibility or how to receive the waiver, contact Student Accounts at 309-268-8140.
