This tilts the equation in favor of the private school. Public schools give more in need based financial aid. Private schools give grants that are little more than tuition adjustments. Then they give scollarships based on merit. Apply both places. Compare the actual price after receiving the final package. If Syracuse actually gets her something extra you have the actual cost of that extra. If it doesn't get you anything, then it shouldn't be a consideration.

Worried for so long about saving for college - now both of my college kids are on full rides - go figure. JC's are also a good way to go. Graduating with debt - not so much.

Good SAT/ACT prep classes are WORTH it big time! Find the right one. Rinse/Repeat - if necessary.

Nothing wrong with state schools IMHO. Wife and I are products of some mediocre (ranked) state schools. Put three kids through private schools, wife stayed home and worked out of the house, which we paid off at 42. IMO NOTHING wrong with state schools.