MCMI Tuition & Financial Support
Below is an estimated budget for the one-year Master of Communication and Media Industries (MCMI) program.
Important Notes
- Indirect costs (housing, food, books and supplies, transportation, and personal expenses) are estimates based on full-time enrollment over one year. Actual expenses will vary depending on individual lifestyle and choices.
- Tuition at the University of Pennsylvania is expected to increase annually. The figures below apply only to the 2026–2027 academic year.
- All costs are subject to change.
Tuition & Fees
| Item | Fall 2026 (3 CUs) | Spring 2027 (3 CUs) | Summer 2027* (2 CUs) | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $24,000 | $24,000 | $16,000 | $64,000 |
| General Fee | $2,134 | $2,134 | $1,060 | $5,328 |
| Clinical Fee | $385 | $385 | N/A | $770 |
| Total | $26,519 | $26,519 | $17,060 | $70,098 |
* Tuition is billed at $8,000 per course unit (CU). Costs will vary if your course load differs.
** Summer 2027 tuition and fees are estimates and will be finalized in April 2027.
Estimated Living Expenses
| Item | Fall 2026 | Spring 2027 | Summer 2027* | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Housing | $6,489 | $6,489 | $4,326 | $17,308 |
| Food | $5,988 | $5,988 | $1,996 | $13,972 |
| Books & Supplies | $706 | $706 | $470 | $1,882 |
| Personal Expenses | $1,004 | $1,004 | $669 | $2,677 |
| Transportation | $540 | $540 | $360 | $1,440 |
| Health Insurance | $2,331 | $2,331 | N/A | $4,662 |
| Total | $17,058 | $17,058 | $7,821 | $41,937 |
* Summer expenses are estimates.
** Health insurance reflects the Penn Student Insurance Plan (PSIP) and is a billed charge unless waived.
Students should create a personal living budget based on their preferences, keeping in mind these estimates may impact loan eligibility.
Billing & Payment Options
Billing is managed by Penn’s Student Registration and Financial Services (SRFS) office. Payment options include:
- Monthly payment plans
- Online and standard payment methods
- Personalized support from SRFS staff
Housing
Graduate students at Penn live off-campus. On-campus housing is not available.
Penn’s Off-Campus Services team provides support with:
- Apartment search
- Lease guidance
- Neighborhood selection
Health Insurance
All full-time students must carry comprehensive health insurance.
- The amount listed reflects the 2026–2027 Penn Student Insurance Plan (PSIP) rate.
- Students with comparable coverage may apply for a waiver.
- Review requirements and waiver criteria through Wellness at Penn.
Financial Aid
Federal Loans & Work-Study (U.S. Citizens/Permanent Residents)
Eligible students should submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by May 31.
- Penn School Code: 003378
We are unable to provide U.S. Federal Student Aid eligibility information in admission decision letters. If you have questions about U.S. Federal Student Aid options, please review the U.S. Federal Student Aid website and Penn's Student Registration and Financial Services (SRFS) website.