<p>I live in the Oc area and I want to stay local. I am having trouble picking a school for Graphic Design major. my top schools are UCI CSUF CSULB AND Chapman (but it's expensive)! I need opinions! help</p>
<p>First you need to figure out your EFC and then run the Net Price Calculators (NPC) on each school to see if you can afford the cost. You also need to sit down with your parents and see how much they are willing to contribute towards your education. It will do no good to apply to schools you cannot afford, so do this first then start selecting schools that you can afford. It would help if you post your STATs so posters can give you some direction for FA/Merit aid. Good Luck</p>
<p>My D also looked at graphic design programs, mostly outside of CA. She applied to art schools, Us and LACs with GD majors. When comparing schools, she viewed samples of the student’s work product. We could really tell the top schools by the quality of finished projects. She was offered scholarships and FA packages at most of the schools. I would suggest you apply to the schools which interest you, regardless of sticker price. Depending upon your stats, portfolio, application you may be in the running for merit aid. </p>
<p>In our experience the net price calculators were pretty far off what D was offered. Also, you basically need a copy of you parents last years tax return to run the net price. Instead, ask your parents to complete the FAFSA and CSS profile asap. (this is their job) I suggest you talk to you parents about budget. Only seriously consider schools which fall into your budget. </p>