What Does "net Cost" Mean?

Calculations of net cost or net price are commonly used by universities to help students and parents understand the costs of attendance, according to U.S. News and World Report. In this context, net cost is calculated by subtracting any grants received from the total tuition to determine the actual cost of attendance that the student must pay. The U.S. government also uses net cost calculations to evaluate budgets, according to the Bureau of the Fiscal Services.