It used to be the norm at state schools, even the flagship 4-year research universities. In-state tuition at UT-Austin in 1960-61 was $100/year, or about $800 i

It used to be the norm at state schools, even the flagship 4-year research universities. In-state tuition at UT-Austin in 1960-61 was $100/year, or about $800 in 2014 dollars. Total cost of attendance (including room/board/expenses) was estimated at $925/year, or about $7,500 in 2014 dollars. The University of California system charged no tuition at all until 1970.