Should I Apply to Schools I can't Afford?

Sue22
Mon, 19 Nov 2018 17:04:24 +0000

To go back to the OP’s original question

I don’t think there’s anything wrong with applying to the “affordable” schools in post #16 as long as you’re realistic and keep your budget in mind. Try not to fall in love with any and know in the end they may just be too expensive, but it seems to me they’re all close enough to what your parents say they can afford that they’re worth an application. One or two may surprise you by being more generous than you expect.

In my experience college costs are like home buying. Parents who say they can afford X can often kick in X+ when the final results roll in. Whether or not it’s prudent is another question.