<p>The bottom line is that everyone should have a list that includes safety’s and reaches both academically and financially. Applicants need to be consumer aware and look at ALL factors including cost and possible financial aid prior to applying. There is nothing worse than hearing about a kid who got into his/her dream school and then found it was unaffordable. As long as you are aware of all of the factors before applying, there are no surprises. Yes, those schools on the list are expensive, but there are hundreds of other schools out there that are just not all that far behind in terms of cost. We are not in a position to send our kids to any school that their hearts desire, but we were very upfront with our kids about what we could afford so that they could be realistic about where they applied. That is not to say we didn’t throw a few schools that were beyond our means into the mix in hopes of some great financial aid, but our kids were aware that option was only open if such aid were awarded (not loans, but scholarship money). However, for those who apply to the schools on the “list” above and are accepted and can afford to go either straight out or with financial awards, more power to them- they will get great educations!</p>