College tuition refers to the cost or fee charged by a college, university or other higher education institution for courses or programs taken by students. It is usually paid on a per-semester, per-quarter or per-year basis and can vary depending on factors such as location, type of school, program of study, and whether the student is in-state or out-of-state resident. The cost of college tuition can be covered through various means including financial aid, scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and personal funds from the student or their family.