Looking for insight into financial aid at various colleges

I'm currently trying to work out which colleges offer the best financial aid packages. Any suggestions for colleges that are known for offering generous aid? Preferably, I'm searching for ones that offer a great balance of merit-based and need-based aid.

Sure, it's great that you're understanding the affordability of college as part of your search. A number of colleges offer strong financial aid, both need- and merit-based. Here are some examples:

- Columbia University: Columbia is need-blind and guarantees to meet 100% of all admitted first-year student's demonstrated financial need for all four years. This includes international students as well.

- Vanderbilt University: Vanderbilt is also need-blind and offers a few merit scholarships that are full-tuition, such as the Ingram Scholars program, the Cornelius Vanderbilt scholarship, and the Chancellor's Scholars program.

- University of Southern California: USC offers both merit-based scholarships (some of which cover full tuition) and need-based financial aid.

- Duke University: Duke is need-blind and commits to meeting 100% demonstrated need. It also offers merit-based scholarships like the Robertson Scholars Leadership Program which covers full tuition, room and board, and even includes summer experiences.

One thing to note is that merit scholarships at such schools are often highly competitive, so it might be wise to also look at some less selective schools that offer generous scholarships for high achieving students.

Remember to always use the net price calculator on each college's financial aid webpage to get an estimated package based on your specific situation. Even colleges with stellar financial aid on paper might not be affordable for you depending on your family's finances, so this step is crucial to finding schools that are a good financial fit. It's worth investing the time in applications to these colleges because it might make a significant difference in your college spending.