pacifica wrote:Hi, I'm a slightly computer-challenged applicant and didn't bother searching through the forums if this has been asked already, so please forgive me if it has.
I'm on the fence about whether or not to ED to Northwestern. I really like the 150K in scholly, and since I'm a VERY risk averse person, this appeals more to me than most other factors. I was just wondering if the cost of living around the area makes this a "true full ride"? I looked up some of the happening places you kids live, like McClurg, and holy cow! Students live in pads like that?! Even assuming I work in a firm for two summers and have very limited (to nonexistent) travel needs, what's the true budget like for the three years?
Oh, and I don't know how to cook but eat a lot... I'm sure that doesn't help my budget does it?
Thanks for your help!
Well, since tuition is just over $53,000 per year (and rises every year), $150k would not quite be a full ride. And it doesn't cover any living expenses.
Yes, we really do live in McClurg and Onterie and the like. The smallest studios here run $1200-$1400 and will fit in the Cost of Attendance budget (more or less). If you live with a roommate and/or further away from campus, you can easily come in well under the $79,628 per 9-month academic year budget. Some people stretch it to cover summer living expenses too.
You should learn to cook. It's part of being a functional adult and will save a ton of money.