Fixed merit aid (Oberlin, Mt Holyoke) v. fluctuating need-based some merit(Smith, St.Olaf, L&C)

@ErinsDad - learning how to provide info appropriately on this forum - and yes, understand net price concept very well. Basically MOHO coming in 6K lower per year so maybe that is pointing us in that direction. On the other hand, my husband is loathe to let that much money dictate the next 4 years of her life, but you have to draw the line somewhere!