<p>Never underestimate the value of a FREE college education. If you already have money set aside and are able to give your child a down payment on a house (well, not in CA or NY type of markets) or set up a trust fund or market account instead of spending it on college, that early financial security will likely go a lot further than a “better” college will. If you do not already have money for college, and would be incurring debt, then it is a no brainer. FWIW: my son ended up applying to his college because of their guaranteed NMSF scholarship. After visiting and finding out more about it, he decided to attend event after being admitted to what he previously thought was his dream school. Sometimes, the school you/your child thinks he would never attend turns out to be the best fit. Visit, visit, visit. Take all rankings with a huge grain of salt.</p>