<p>We just received the Earlham package (via a link on their website) with exact breakdown. IMO their “budget” is very honest and their financial aid (always need based) is straightforward. It is important to compare the budget of different schools! Many do not allocate anything to “books” or very little to “transportation” (i.e. trips home). It is well worth for parents to investigate all of these items in detail with the FinAid people at each college (make appt. and talk in person) . This will give you a better picture after you have done your spreadsheet and also establish a relationship with the FinAid people – or not. When older kid was doing admits visits, that is what I did and it was well worth it.</p>