I have been accepted to both WashU and Northeastern for a CS major. WashU has been one of my top schools and I would love to go, but I have no financial/merit aid, so it would cost about $296k for four years. I got a scholarship to NU though, so it would cost me about $100k for the four years. Can anyone give me any advice? For a CS major, is WashU much more renown/recognized than NU?
Correction: WashU would cost $260k total, not $296k
For computer science I would argue that Northeastern is a much stronger program.
But WUSTL is higher ranked overall if that is important to you. How would you finance the $160,000 difference? Can your parents afford to write the checks or would there be major loans?
I assume that you are talking about the school in St. Louis, not the one in Seattle.
My daughter chose WashU over Northeastern with a very similar $ decision. Truthfully for us it was a no brainer because we are fortunate enough that the $ didn’t need to be a major decision point. Obviously you have to make a decision based on your situation. From a non $ school standpoint it was a an easy decision as WashU provided so much more of the environment she was looking for. From reputation, academics, campus and the amazing collaborative atmosphere… She has found the environment really intellectually fulfilling and loves the vibe of the students. I can’t speak of specifics as it relates to CS in much detail but I am aware of some very successful job and intern outcomes for students in CS. BTW they also have a dual Business and CS degree.
What I can say is she has absolutely loved every minute of WashU and St Louis has turned out to be a really cool town to go to school in,
With that said she didn’t hate NU and felt a little guilty because they definitely pushed hard for her to come there with lots of extra $ incentives (travel bank etc)
Good luck… I hope you go to WashU because you’ll love it. But if not good luck at Northeastern.
Thanks everyone who’s given me advice! I ended up choosing NU because even though my parents are willing to pay all 4 years, I’d rather they save more money for brother’s college + their retirement.
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