Affordability Issues: Which are the Least Affordable Colleges in the US?

Hey everyone, I am starting to research colleges but affordability is a big deal for me and my family. Any insight on which are considered the least affordable colleges in the US? Also any tips on finding scholarships for these schools would be great.

When considering the cost of college, you need to keep in mind both the tuition cost and the average financial aid package provided by the institution. Many of the universities with the highest sticker prices, such as Ivy League universities, actually end up being quite affordable due to their generous need-based financial aid programs. However, some private universities tend to be less affordable due to their high tuition and lower financial aid.

Schools like Washington University in St. Louis, University of Southern California, and New York University are some institutions that are known to be quite expensive. While these schools do offer financial aid packages, the net price (the cost of attendance minus aid) tends to be higher than at other similar institutions due to their lower commitment to meeting 100% demonstrated financial need.

For identifying scholarships, I recommend starting with the college's financial aid website to learn about institutional scholarships they may offer. Aside from that, there are plenty of third-party scholarship opportunities that aren't tied to a specific school. Look for scholarships offered by local organizations or ones related to your academic interests or demographics.

Also, remember to utilize the Net Price Calculator available on each school's website. It can give you a rough estimate of what you might expect to pay at a particular institution based on your financial situation.

And finally, consider state schools and community colleges as viable options. They're traditionally more affordable and many offer excellent programs. Especially if you're in-state, these might end up being the most financially viable option.