I am deciding between OSU and Rutgers Honors. I live in NJ, so I’m paying in-state tuition, and after scholarships, that amount has been sliced in half. OSU, on the other hand, has offered me no scholarship, but a place in the ACES (Advocates for Communities and Education Scholars) program. I am planning on studying either pre-med or economics (or both). OSU is a better school according to US News (#54 compared to Rutgers at #71), and it also offers more vibrant student life and a better campus. Does anyone have any suggestions as to which way I should go?
IMHO no scholarship go to Rutgers 100% (unless you have a full college fund and can afford OSU).
Save the money and go to Rutgers, unless you absolutely hate it. Being in the honors college will likely increase the quality of your education.
A 17-place difference in rankings is not significant, IMO; certainly not adequately significant to choose the higher-ranked school based on prestige, when the other school is ~50% lower in cost.
Scholarships are more than a reduction in the price you pay - often they distinguish you as a wanted, highly regarded incoming student. Think about future applications to next years scholarships/internships/jobs/graduate school… those scholarships denote your merit and end up being listed under Honors/Awards. Even if money was not a consideration it’s a big advantage to be able to list that others thought your education was worth their investment.
The difference in rankings is not significant and I would not base a decision on that. Can you afford OSU without debt and will you be able to afford med school after that? If cost is not an issue, chose the school you feel is a better fit but be aware that saving some money during your under grad years may influence what you are able to do later.