Our student had the exact same situation. Received a merit scholarship from NE, admitted OOS engineering at Georgia Tech. This one was easy. Tech was the clear choice, even though it costs more, all things considered. We researched both and felt Tech offered much more in the way of opportunities, and the academic climate is superior. Our student expected to be admitted to Northeastern, and was, but regarded Georgia Tech as a greater challenge — the OOS admit there was perceived as a great accomplishment, not to be discarded. Yes, it’s very stressful and quite a grind at times, but well worth it. There are solid friendships and good times too. Our student misses the Tech campus a great deal now that Coronavirus has closed it down. Can’t wait to go back.