<p>Cuca: Instead of saying “I got an offer of X from Other U, but I would really prefer caltech, if the cost was the same” say “I would really like to make my decision on which school is better for me, scholastically, without worrying that Other U is more affordable.”</p>
<p>Good luck to everyone who plans to take on finaid. It is worth the effort. Get your parents, or competent counselors to help.</p>