<p>For those of you who want to know average scholarship details, etc. look at the CDS. But look only at institutional aid and not outside aid and loans. Also, it helps to know that you will likely get more than the merit you recieved if you qualify for additional need based aid. And if you get a better scholarship at a peer institution, like Northeastern or RPI, you can appeal your aid. Or you speak with the FA office and try pleading about how much you really want to attend and how your package prevents you from attending.</p>
<p>And apply for financial aid, even if your income is high. There are many factors, such as # of children in school, etc. Do your research and apply for outside scholarships as well. And keep in mind that if you plan it right, you can get internships starting your freshman summer. I did that and it helped a lot financially (another $7k). If your need is not met, try asking for Work Study if you don’t already get it. Private loans should be an absolute last resort.</p>
<p>Finally, if WPI is really out of reach financially, it may be wise to look at other options. Reputation-wise, UMass-Amherst is similar for engineering but I chose not to attend for personal/fit-related reasons. Other public universities in New England like UNH, URI, Maine, and UVM are not that good for engineering so take that into account. For those not in MA, the University of Minnesota is an outstanding value ($5k above in state tuition for out of state + possible scholarship). SUNY at Stony Brook and Buffalo OOS are also quite affordable and have a solid reputation for engineering.</p>
<p>WPI is an excellent school and may be a good fit but it is not necessarily the only fit. There are plenty of other great schools out there.</p>