<p>I’d make the case that it’s better to use today’s dollars to make the investment if you have the right kid who can really soar in BS. What you gain in education (and study habits) as a mid-adolescent you cary forward with you, and what you miss out on is much harder to fill in later. Also a strong BS career probably significantly improves your chances for both needed-based and merit FA, plus if you’re an athlete, can showcase you in unusual sports (crew, squash, tennis, etc.) that elite colleges support. For the right kid, it’s an investment risk well worth taking.</p>