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

I’d definitely think about tuition increases. A school that meets 100% of need will adjust for that, but a fixed merit scholarship won’t. If you think your need is going to go down drastically, that’s a reason to pick merit.

Anecdotally, I hear few kids like both Smith and Mount Holyoke. They’re both terrific but they have very different vibes. Your decision may be more certain after you visit them. :slight_smile: