I need help deciding which college to choose: SDSU or UCSB.
SDSU was my first choice because they have the best program in California for what I want to do (speech therapy). The problem is that it is going to be a lot more expensive than if I go to UCSB (around $7,000 more in loans that I would have to take out). I love UCSB, the only thing is that the program is not as good there.
I’m not sure what to do anymore. I know SDSU may be better career wise, but I also do not want to rack up so much student debt.
So you received more aid for UCSB than SDSU? Is SDSU commutable?
What is your actual financial package? You realize that you as a Freshman undergrad cannot take out more than $5500 in loans unless you are transfer which would be $7500? Is $7000/year or for the 4 years?
What major did you get into at UCSB? Which campus do you prefer?
Yes, I received more aid from UCSB. SDSU requires students to live on campus the first two years and is 2.5 hours away from me, and I do not have a car so cannot commute.
Overall cost of attendance at SDSU would be about $28,000 per year for me, and I am receiving $11,167 in grants (Cal grand and Pell Grant), which leaves me with $17,000 to worry about! My parents would have to take out the loan for a majority of that.
Overall cost of attendance at UCSB is $35,000 and I am receiving $18,215 in grants, $4,612 in scholarships from the school and $2,000 from work study. Leaving me with about $10,000 to take out in loans.
I was not aware that I was only able to $5,500.
I got into the linguistics major with an emphasis on speech and language sciences, which would also work to become a speech therapist. And I absolutely loved the campus at Santa Barbara! I have visited it twice and it felt perfect for me. I only like SDSU because of the program.
UCSB seems like the best option and you will still be able to achieve your goal.
You can take out $5500 as a Freshman, $6500 as a Sophomore and $7500 Junior/Senior year. The gap will have to filled by your parents with either savings, current income or Parent Plus loans. Also work study is not guaranteed, so you should not count on that money until you actually get a job and earn it. Definitely consider working this summer to help with costs. Also you can save money by selecting a triple for housing, the least expensive meal plan, book rentals etc…
Best of luck with your decision.
Thank you so much! This was very helpful!