Affordable Private Colleges in New York?

So, I'm a junior planning to apply to colleges in NYC because I love the city vibe. However, the cost of many private schools is a bit nerve-wracking. Could anyone provide insight into private colleges in New York that are known for being relatively affordable or offering great financial aid?

Sure, I'd be happy to help! New York is home to a variety of private colleges and universities which offer a range of financial aid packages.

1. Columbia University is renowned for its generous need-based financial aid. As of 2022, families earning under $85,000 annually fall under their "no parental contribution" policy. Moreover, it follows a "need-blind" admission policy domestically, meaning your ability to pay doesn't impact your admittance chances.

2. Cornell University, another Ivy League, also offers excellent need-based financial aid, with a no-loan policy for students from families with an income of less than $60,000.

3. New York University (NYU) has traditionally been known for high tuition and limited aid, but it has been increasing efforts to improve financial aid offers. As of 2020, NYU School of Medicine offers full-tuition scholarships to all students regardless of their financial situation.

4. Cooper Union provides every student with a half-tuition scholarship, worth approximately $20,400 per academic year for 2022-2023.

5. Fordham University offers a range of merit-based scholarships that can significantly offset the cost of attendance, while also meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need.

6. Barnard College, affiliated with Columbia University, is another private institution known for its robust financial aid, with more than 50% students receiving some form of financial aid.

Remember, however, that the sticker price of a college is often not the same as the actual price you will pay. You can use the Net Price Calculators available on each school's website to get a sense of what attending might cost you. The calculator factors in your family's financial information to estimate the financial aid you might receive. Applying for as many scholarships as you can, both school-provided and third-party, will also help to bring the cost down.