<p>It does sound as if you are leaning toward the BFA program at Columbia. I don’t know anything about that program, but before you consider it seriously, look at this:</p>
<p><a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/musical-theater-major/1307708-some-actual-costs-loan-repayment-our-students-out-there.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/musical-theater-major/1307708-some-actual-costs-loan-repayment-our-students-out-there.html</a></p>
<p>There have been many other similar discussions about cost on CC in the past, but this is the most recent.</p>
<p>I looked at columbia’s website, and the average annual cost for a student living in the dorms or in a nearby apt. is close to $40,000 per year- that includes tuition, books, romm & board, etc. It only includes $820 for transportation which is low for you- that is MAYBE 2 round trips home with no extra for transportation around the city, auditions, etc. If you attend for 3 years that is at least $120,000; if you go 4 years which is typical with a BFA transfer, it is up to $160,000. With that debt, you are looking at a monthly payment of maybe $1500or more once you graduate. That is on top of rent, audition costs, food, transportation, clothing, etc. I just don’t know of many jobs that will pay you enough straight out of school to come up with those payments. In addition, be aware that you by yourself will not be able to get a loan for that amount. You will need a co-signer to borrow money. I personally would never co-sign a loan of that amount for my children. The chances of default are just too great. </p>
<p>It sounds as if the costs at PLU are similar, minus the scholarship and some transportation. In addition, you would attend for only 2 years. Assuming the quality of the 2 programs is similar, PLU is starting to sound pretty good. </p>
<p>The only reason I am assuming cost comes into play here, is that you stated you would be $100,000 in the hole with Columbia…YIKES</p>