Hey, y'all! I've been looking for a college with a strong focus on liberal education, but I've heard that these colleges can often come with a bigger price tag. I want to do some research and look into how 'expensive' these institutions can get. Could anyone direct me to a list or a source where they break down the costs of the most expensive liberal colleges in the United States? Thanks in advance!
While I cannot provide a link to such a list, I can certainly give you some insights into a few of the most expensive liberal arts colleges in the United States, based on the most recent data.
Firstly, understand that when evaluating the cost of a college, you should consider not just the sticker price (the full cost published), but also the net price, which is the cost after financial aid.
The most expensive liberal arts colleges in terms of sticker price often include:
1. Sarah Lawrence College in Bronxville, New York, known for its flexible curriculum allowing students to explore multiple disciplines. Its annual tuition and fees could exceed $55,000 per year.
2. Oberlin College in Oberlin, Ohio, a school known for its vibrant arts scene and commitment to social justice. Tuition and fees could approach or surpass $55,000 annually.
3. Bard College in Annandale-On-Hudson, New York, known for its innovative programs like the "Language and Thinking" program. Its tuition and fees could approach the mid $50,000s.
But keep this in mind - these numbers are the published prices, without considering financial aid. Many expensive colleges, especially private ones, have robust financial aid programs and dedicate substantial part of their budget towards aid.
For example, Amherst College in Massachusetts, known for its open curriculum and diverse student body, has an average net price (after aid) of around $19,000, despite its sticker price that is comparably high. This is because more than 60% of Amherst students receive need-based aid.
So, while researching, remember to consider not just the sticker price, but financial aid opportunities as well. Use the net price calculators available on all US college websites to get an estimate of what you would actually pay.
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