<p>I’m an engineer at UA and initially I would agree that it is better to go to a top engineering school. However, given the price difference (even though you are fortunate enough that your parents can pay) I would advise against it. No debt is always better than any debt. Furthermore, engineering is engineering. If you are an ambitious student with set goals in mind you will be able to accomplish whatever you desire. I turned down a 3/4 scholarship to Georgia Tech for a “full ride” here (I don’t like calling them full rides for reasons I won’t get into here). I’m not sure if GT is ranked as high as UIUC but it is a top engineering school.</p>