Looking for Affordable Private Colleges in NY

I'm in New York and looking for good private colleges that won't break the bank. Any suggestions?

There are a few notable affordable private institutions in New York that you might want to consider. Cooper Union, for instance, is often recognized for its relative affordability. They offer degrees in the fields of Art, Architecture, and Engineering. Until 2014, Cooper Union offered full-tuition scholarships to all of its undergraduates. While this is no longer the case, the school remains highly committed to providing financial aid to its students, and more than three-quarters of Cooper Union students still receive some form of need-based aid.

Another school to consider is CUNY's Macaulay Honors College [this is not a private school, but it is a free and high-quality school that you should consider if affordability is your main concern]. This Honors College offers a highly selective program within the larger CUNY system and covers full-tuition for in-state students.

You may also want to look at colleges that pledge to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students. These include Columbia University and Cornell University. Keep in mind though that these institutions are highly selective.

Lastly, it's essential to understand that the sticker price of many colleges is often higher than the price you'll pay. Financial aid can significantly offset the cost, so consider applying to a range of schools and comparing aid packages. Consider utilizing net price calculators on college websites to get a more precise idea of what you might pay at different institutions. These calculators take into account income, assets, and other factors to estimate what your particular financial aid package might look like.

Remember that the "best" school is not only one that matches your academic and extracurricular interests, but also one that is a good financial fit for you.