<p>The answer to this is clearly determined on a case by case basis. In our case we chose the higher cost option. Scary thought not knowing what would happen six months later when said child was well into first semester. Now having reached that point I am really glad I did not promote the alternative. DD clearly made the right choice, money in this case is secondary. BUt what if DD hated school and decided to transfer, now without the possibility of merit aid? Impossible to predict the outcome. Money would then be a BIG issue.</p>
<p>I agree with akdaddy. </p>
<p>There are some things money can't buy.</p>