<p>So I can only afford to apply to one Oregon school (not poor enough for a fee waiver, not rich enough to apply to all the schools I want…), and I’ve narrowed it down to these two. I go to a Catholic high school in Seattle and both of these would be considered safeties for me. My main concerns are the qualities of their programs (I want to major in poli sci or international relations), and affordability, ie financial aid and scholarships. To me they seem pretty comparable, and I can’t visit them until spring, after I’ve picked and applied to one. Does anyone have any input?</p>
<p>Have you tried the net price calculator for each? Are you applying to other schools?</p>
<p>University of Portland is free to apply to.</p>
<p>Not really that much alike, both small but Linfield is half the size of UP, Baptist compared to Catholic, Division III sports vs. Div. I, has Greek life and is probably an easier admission. I don’t know that much about Linfield, but UP was relatively generous with merit money with students I know that have applied there. Is money not an issue, both are expensive and probably won’t meet your full FAFSA EFC need.</p>
<p>I’m not sure about their poli sci or intl relations departments but UP has pretty respected business and nursing programs. I’m currently looking into transferring there. UP is in northwest Portland which has a more neighborhood feel but is close to all that downtown has to offer. Linfield is in McMinnville which is a lot smaller and more rural, if that helps give you an idea of either before you visit. Haven’t heard anything about Linfield’s academics, I know that UP is ranked higher. </p>
<p>Have you considered looking at Pacific University in Forest Grove? Similar to these two and I know a few poli sci majors there who are very happy. I’ve been told they are also pretty generous with financial aid.</p>
<p>Run the Net Price Calculator and apply to the school that would be the cheapest. You want your safety to be as inexpensive as possible 
You can also look at their Honors College - since the school is a safety, you’d probably qualify for the Honors College. But not all Honors Colleges offer the same advantages: living-learning honors community, scholarship, priority registration, cultural trips, study abroad support…?</p>