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
Iowa State St Ambrose
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How much is tuition & fees? 8,079 7,768 26,500/year
How much is room and board? 9,614 11,519
including other
fees.
9,016
Estimate the amount needed for books, supplies,
transportation, etc.
3,168 3,473 1,200
How much does it cost to apply to the college
(application fee)? If accepted, how much is the
deposit?
$40
$250
$40
$330
No application
fee, but
deposit is 250
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What is the deadline to apply for financial aid? Pref 3/1 3/1 250$
What forms must be submitted? Federal
Income Tax
Returns
Iowa
Verification
Form (IVF)
FAFSA
FAFSA Any of
2014-15 Student
Verification Form
2014-15
Staff/Faculty
Grant Application
2014-15 Cost of
Attendance
Worksheet
2014-15 Proof of
Identity and
Educational
Purpose Form
2014-15 Child
Support Paid
Form
2014-15
Supplemental
Nutrition
Assistance
Program (SNAP)
Form
2014-15
Household
Resources Form
Undergraduate
Alumni Grant
Application
Satisfactory
Academic
Progress Appeal
Form
What percentages of students receive financial
aid?
80%




85%

Almost 90%
What kinds of scholarships does the college Over 2,000. Very small Many
provide? Many
academic
scholorships
requiring a
specific SAT
score and
GPA.
Iowa Heritage
Award
Old Gold
Scholarship

amount of
scholarships
based on
grades, most
scholarships
are based on
your specific
major in
college.
academic
scholarships,
but some
based on
athletic ability,
fine arts, or
financial need.
When is the deadline to apply? May 1st July 1st May 15th
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What are the residence hall requirements? To be a
student, at the
University of
Iowa. $75
dollar initial
refundable fee.
Must be on a
meal plan, and
sign a contract,
not following
the contract
gives fines.
Always
wearing an ID.
No pets,
alcohol only
allowed for 21
an over
What kind of dining options are available? Market place
meals, along
with flex
meals, and 4
payment
options
deciding how
often, and
where you use
your Iowa
card.
Meal plans are
required while
in the
residence hall.
3 on campus
restaurants, 9
cafes, food
court, and on
campus
convenience
stores
Food courte
meal plans,
and off
campus 2
restaurants
available
What is the cost of nearby apartments? Average about
$600 rent
$600-1000 Usually around
$700-800
What would be the average cost of food if you did
not have a meal plan?
$200/month Around $200 a
month
$200
How much money would you need above and
beyond school expenses?
$3,000/year 3,000/year or
more
$2,500/year or
less.


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


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


http://collegecost.ed.gov/