<p>
[quote]
I might be off here, but the Chicago offer was only full TUITION. If the Duke offer was a full RIDE, I can see where he would make that choice. And for all his brains and physics know-how, maybe he's just not a total nerd like the rest of us (not interested in the Core maybe?).
[/quote]
To clarify, the biggest Duke scholarships (AB Duke, BN Duke, Robertson, Reginald Howard) are also "only" full tuition. :p</p>
<p>Meeting "full need" can include grants, loans, student summer work contribution, and work study. One package may meet need with fewer loans or or work study and more in the way of grants than another, even if the EFC is the same for both. A merit award result in a recalculation of the aid award. Often, however, Chicago will allow the merit award to replace the loans, work study, and student contribution.</p>