<p>Ill start with a statement most of you may disagree with: All colleges cost pretty much the same for most people. Thats because most of us have EFCs in the 17-27K range, which ironically is right around the cost of in-state. So if you go OOS or Private, your aid package kicks in. Also, if you have a competitive GPA/Rank you stand a good chance that OOS schools and some privates will poney up some merit money. In the end those very different school prices will only vary by about 20%, and, often isnt a big part of the decision point for most. </p>
<p>The rankings should be a factor either. Choose a school you think fits you, that has people in it like you.</p>
<p>In response to #14 and 15, I meant people who go all the way through for 2-4 years for their Associates or Bachelors at the school. I don’t mean to insult anyone who has gone to one; it’s a great tool, just not usually going to get you the more advanced jobs.</p>
<p>Akebias, your undergrad does not matter that much for grad school. I have met people who have gotten into top medical and law schools from state flagships. Your undergrad doesn’t matter that much as long as it’s a pretty good school, if you’re going into graduate school. Your grades matter a lot more.</p>
<p>Most public schools do not give good financial aid to out-of-state students, so they are likely only affordable for a financially needy out-of-state student if they have very low list prices, or the student gets a large merit scholarship.</p>
<p>Private schools are all over the place on financial aid generosity. Some are well known for good financial aid (Harvard, Stanford), while others are well known for poor financial aid (New York University).</p>