<p>I had a few friends who “traded up” because financial aid was better. I wouldn’t doubt the fact that sticker price is the same amongst a large swath of schools but actual out-of-pocket is quite different for some people due to aid policies has helped to push more people to transfer.</p>
<p>The friend I’m thinking of went from Parsons to RISD, lost a year of classes, and still will graduate with less debt and is at a school that is better for her area of interest.</p>