College Affordability and Cost

There are many factors that go into finding the right school; at the top of the list is always fit-both academic and social, location, class size, student resources…the list goes on. College cost is just as important, but every year I have seniors and their families who are trying to figure out how to pay for schools they can’t afford.  Many selective schools meet need, but when you live in a place like CA and the cost of living is high, people are often surprised by how little financial aid is offered by their #1 choice school.

If you are a parent of a junior (or even a sophomore), please talk about the cost of college as a family. Even families who can afford $80k-$90k/year in tuition should be talking about the value of education. Other things like travel costs and Greek life should be taken into consideration as well.

The net price calculator will give you a ball park of what college will cost. This one is great, and you can also google xyz school and net price calculator and you’ll find an npc for each college. Keep in mind there are also a lot of schools that offer great merit aid packages if your student is strong academically. I’m not a financial advisor, but these are all very important conversations and part of how I advise students and families.