<p>*A god-daughter of mine was admitted this year to XYZ-topLAC in NY. Total cost was 52,000. After grants, she will have a total of 24,000 to pay back in loans, for ALL four years, assuming she doesn’t flunk out. That’s less cost than a low-end automobile. She had the grades, though. Going to a state school would have cost her at least double.
*</p>
<p>Sounds like she had a LOT of need, great stats, and doesn’t live in a state that also gives aid. </p>
<p>She could have the same amount of need, lower stats, and not have that lots-of-grants opportunity. </p>
<p>Or she could have much less need, great stats, and the parents have to pay more than a state school. </p>
<p>Finding the best value can largely depend on individual situation of income, how much the family can pay, stats, and how generous state aid can be.</p>