The Engineer who likes to debate..

mom2engkids - NU was the least expensive out of pocket option of all the schools my kids looked at, which includes Rose Hulman, Purdue, U of Minn, Iowa State, and in-state flagship UIUC. And now, NU will be even better for your kids because of NU’s new policy of no loans - just grants - for Fin Aid.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/ct-northwestern-university-loans-financial-aid-20160303-story.html

Notice I did not say NU was cheapest - because they are not - but they were least expensive regarding out of pocket costs because of the Financial Aid my kids received. The local public unis have had budgets cut back - they couldn’t give my kids the kind of money necessary for them to attend. NU was able to grant enough money, and my 2 NU engineers love it. BTW - we are not low income, but our EFC was less than yours. Good Luck - and PM me if you have follow up questions.