Discussions

Many families assume the published tuition price reflects what they will actually pay for college, but that figure often ignores grants, scholarships, and need-based aid that significantly reduce costs. Understanding the difference between sticker price and net price is a critical step in making informed college decisions, especially during the college application process. By learning how financial aid works and reviewing reliable college info, families can better evaluate college financing options and avoid ruling out schools that may be more affordable than expected. Taking time to analyze real costs early helps students and parents focus on finding the right college based on fit, outcomes, and long-term value rather than assumptions about price alone.