Students factor cost into college decision

As college tuition rises, the price of attending a postsecondary institution continues to be an issue of concern to students and families. With average private school tuition ranging from $30,000 to $45,000 a year, even in affluent communities price is a significant factor for many in choosing the right college.

For most college-bound high school seniors, the first step in applying for financial aid involves filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, also known as FAFSA. This form can be filled out by any prospective or current college student to determine eligibility for student financial aid in the form of grants or loans.

Many colleges also require financial aid applicants to fill out the CSS Profile, an application distributed by the CollegeBoard. Upon admission to the college, applicants are notified of the financial aid packages they have been offered.

“The real defining factor will be how much financial aid I receive from each college,” senior Katlyn Hirokawa said. “If I get into a school that offers me a really good financial aid package and one that doesn't give me a lot, I'm obviously going to pick the school that does.”

Financial aid can also be merit-based. The University of Southern California, for example, offers half tuition to National Merit Finalists who list USC as their first choice, among several hundred other merit-based awards.

Several organizations and charities also offer a variety of scholarships, available to not only high school seniors but occasionally to lower grades as well. Students can learn about these opportunities through the guidance office website or independent research.

“I want to do as much as I can to help my parents,” said senior Priscilla Chu, who is in the midst of applying for outside scholarships. Scholarships are offered for nearly every interest and often require that students write essays or submit transcripts and letters of recommendation to be considered for them.

Despite still offering lower tuition for California residents, the University of California’s costs of attending have risen substantially over the years. While tuition at UC Berkeley was as low as $700 a year in the 1970s, it’s now approaching upwards of $13,000, not to mention the close to $20,000 price tag of housing, dining plans and other miscellaneous fees.

“I’m mainly looking at private colleges over UCs because the UCs are so overcrowded that it can be hard to get into classes or do anything,” senior Nandita Sampath said. “They do offer Regents Scholarships, though, which give you priority registration and some money, so if I got one of those I’d be more willing to go to a UC.”

Apart from choosing a school that offers the most financial aid, several students also plan to lessen the financial burden of college tuition by working.

“Although unfortunately pay for a teenager does not constitute a lot of income, I believe that starting to save now will be worth it in the end,” senior Elyse Berlinberg said. Berlinberg works as a barista at Peet’s Coffee and Tea as well as an assistant coach for younger ages at Brookside Club’s swim team.

Though cost is an important deciding factor, the final decision ultimately tends to be based on a school’s overall fit.

“Any scholarships of notable quantity will certainly raise the value of a school on my list, but my personal belief is that since you are living for four years at a university, you should truly enjoy life there despite increased financial burden,” Berlinberg said. “The quality of education, both inside and outside the classroom, will eventually pay off.”