Private or OOS Public

Comparing private schools (Lehigh, Villanova) to some public OOS schools (UMD, UDel, Penn State), the difference is about $20K per year. Are the private schools worth $20K more?

Whether or not it is worth it is different for everybody. There are sooo many threads debating this issue.

It also depends on whether there is a potential for scholarship money at the privates. Public universities rarely offer scholarship money to OOS students (for good reason). But a decent scholarship at a private may make it much more comparable.

You should look for the school that is right for you - and that includes cost - without worrying so much about public vs. private arguments.

My daughter chose Purdue Honors College over Lehigh because of fit issues (academics, size, location, etc…) I agree not to worry about the private vs public piece of things.

Agree, it is a personal decision. Note for some people the difference between an in-state and an OOS public is not worth it.

“Worth it” means different things to different people. You have to decide what is right for you and your family.

What is the major and what schools exactly. Although good udel isn’t penn state and penn State is not um cs and me/ee. If it’s engineering Lehigh may be the best route if it’s finance I would choose pennstatr over Lehigh. But the advice above is excellent. It depends on who and the circumstances.

Right, it depends on the person/family and circumstances.

IMO it’s most likely to be “worth it” when (a) your family is wealthy enough that the difference does not matter, or (b) your family can afford the difference without too much debt, and you seek specific opportunities that are only available at the more expensive option.

To put it in perspective, if it’s a difference between $120,000 and $140,000, both are terrible options. It’s like asking which debt would bankrupt me less? If your parents can afford the tuition without passing large amounts of debt to you, then it really just comes down to preference. Since cost is being mentioned, I’m assuming that you’re paying for at least some of it. I highly recommending scrapping both and finding something more affordable.

Thanks for all your input. Focusing on a business major. My family can afford the difference and is willing to pay the extra cost if they feel its a better program.

…well then. you have your answer.

Find the placement data from each school.