<p>Phoenixdad,
Our son had a $28,000/year scholarsip to Un of Maimi, a $10,000 for Lehigh, was accepted to William and Mary ($14,000 less per year tuition), Bucknell, Boston College, and Cornell (no money) last year. We left the decision up to him (told him not to make his decision based on finances), and he chose Tufts because he felt that although the academics were similar at all of these schools, the total college experience seemed more to his liking at Tufts. (location near Boston, the size, the student body, etc.) He has not regretted his decision one bit.... Each time we visit or I hear his collegiate update, I feel certain that putting less away for my retirement and toward his experience is worth every penny. It comes down to your financial concerns and your child's best interest/fit. Good luck</p>