I still run into quite a few people who think they can’t afford to attend a private nonprofit college because of its high tuition. They have on idea that the vast majority of students at those schools don’t pay the sticker price. It’s understandable that people don’t realize the published tuition simply represents a ceiling, that is, it’s in effect a statement that no incoming freshman will pay more than that amount. It tells us nothing about how many will actually pay the sticker price.
Indeed, on average, freshmen at the private nonprofit colleges get a discount of more than 40% off the sticker price. At some schools no one pays the sticker price — everyone receives a discount (or “scholarship” as the college prefer to call them). And at some, students with high academic achievement, or high need, get a full ride (all the tuition is waived).
If you want an idea what colleges actually charge, then check the College Navigator website. Enter the name of the college you’re considering, then click on the Net Price tab. You’ll see the actual net tuition charged to students. It’s even broken down by income category.
You’re chances of receiving a hefty discount are better if your grades and test scores are high. But don’t assume you have to have top academic credentials to receive a big discount, especially at the less selective schools.
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