College Expense Comparison Worksheet

When researching which college to attend, there are many factors to

consider cost of attendance, financial aid and many more. These factors
can play an important tool in deciding which college is the best choice for
you. Use the template below to note the financial characteristics of each
college campus you research. Research a 2- year institution (or trade
school), in/out of state public school, and a in/out state private school. When
finished comparing- rank in order that you would want to attend.

University of
Iowa
St. Ambrose UNI
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How much is tuition & fees? $8,079 $27,300 $7,749
How much is room and board? $9,614 $2,025 and up $8,066
Estimate the amount needed for books, supplies,
transportation, etc.
$3,168 $4,050 $3,084
How much does it cost to apply to the college
(application fee)? If accepted, how much is the
deposit?
$40, $250 $25, $425 $75, $320
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What is the deadline to apply for financial aid? March 1
st
March 15 Spring
Semester
What forms must be submitted? Free
application for
Federal
Student Aid,
IVF, along with
photocopies of
you and your
parents federal
income and tax
returns
File forms for
FAFSA
File your
FAFSA
What percentages of students receive financial
aid?
80% Above 80% More than 80%
What kinds of scholarships does the college
provide?
Presidential
scholarship
program, Old
Gold
Scholarship,
Iowa Scholars
Award, etc.
St. Vincent
scholarships,
St. Ambrose
fellowship
scholarship,
Empowerment
scholarship,
GSGA
To deserving
students based
on merit and
achievement
there are
scholarships
for academics,
art, music,
theatre,
athletics, etc.

When is the deadline to apply? April 1
st
April 1
st
January 15
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What are the residence hall requirements? $75 application
fee
$250 damage
deposit
No pets, no
smoking
What kind of dining options are available? Buffet-style
dining, on each
campus
multiple food
facilities like
Burge
2 dining halls,
plus food
facilities
around
campus
2 dining halls
Piazza and
Rialto as well
as pizza to go
What is the cost of nearby apartments? Anywhere from $465 a room $585-$1160
$660 and up
What would be the average cost of food if you did
not have a meal plan?
$189 a week to
eat on campus
$60 for
groceries
$60 a week to
go to a nearby
grocery store
How much money would you need above and
beyond school expenses?
$50 a week $50 a week $50 a week


The following links might be helpful, or check out each schools website.


http://collegecost.ed.gov/catc/Default.aspx


http://collegecost.ed.gov/