Parents of the HS Class of 2023 (Part 1)

[ProfSD]

It seems that at least twice a year on CC there are entire threads devoted to whether or not it’s “worth it” to pay more money for the more prestigious college or take the cheaper option. It’s is a regular topic of debate, and often you will see questions about two specific college choices when RD decisions roll around in the spring. It might be helpful to go back and read through some of those threads. There are always plenty of comments for and against.

This thread asking if parents regretted being full pay is also interesting:

Parents Who Paid Up For Your Child’s Dream School - Did You End Up Regretting It?

S22 has had his heart set on Baylor since prior to submitting applications last fall. Good but not outstanding student. Was admitted EA with need and merit aid bringing the cost “down” to 51K/year. Option #2 is in state at CU Boulder at 32K/year. Baylor is a better fit due to fewer undergrads, smaller class sizes and the faith component he is looking for. We could stretch and send him to Baylor, but are having a hard time swallowing an extra 80K over four years. For parents who were in similar situations and who sent your child to the more expensive school, how did things turn out? Do you feel it was worth it? Would you make the same choice again?