According to The Chronicle of Higher Education, there are currently over 100 colleges that cost (tuition, room, board, fees) more than $50,000 per year.  The University of California at Berkeley, a public institution, has joined the list. 



Few families can afford the sticker price, and most of these schools offer “need-based” financial aid.  Need-based aid refers to the difference between the cost of attending the institution, and the amount of money that the school's financial aid formula determines that the family "can" afford.  

 Aid comes in many forms -- scholarships (grants), loans and work-study awards.

 Schools use varying aid formulas to determine "need".  Only a few dozen institutions offer "need-blind" admission.  Most others fall into the category of "need aware" and coordinate admissions desirability with student aid.



When it comes to awarding grants and scholarships, many "need-aware" colleges and universities are most generous with the applicants they consider most desirable  -- athletes, scholars, underrepresented minority students, gifted musicians and others with talents and backgrounds that are of interest to the school.  


 
Most Expensive Colleges & Universities 2010-2011*

(Tuition Plus Room & Board)

Highest Tuition 2010-2011*

Visit Campus Grotto Top 100 Most Expensive Colleges * for additional details and a more comprehesive list.

Visit  The Chronicle of Higher Education for the Top 100 List which includes tuition, room, board and fees.