<p>If you go to the interview you will interview with a professor (usually in a subject you are interested in) and talk to current students. Also they will get you in touch with current Berkeley students who you can ask questions, etc… So maybe go in with an open mind and see what they have to offer before making a decision either way. If you decide your heart is at MIT, and money is a huge issue, you might talk to financial aid and show them your financial aid offer from Berkeley and they might be able to give you a better offer. My understanding of Regents is that if there is no need it is $2500 a year, but otherwise they “meet” need. I don’t think you will really be “taking someone’s spot” because they take into account that a portion of the candidates will not attend. If you are really worried about it, attend the interview and then if you decide to go to MIT, let Berkeley know before the end of March when decisions come out. </p>