Price Over Prestige: Making the Right College Choice for Your Teen

When it comes to choosing a college, the allure of a prestigious name can be hard to resist. As parents, we want the best for our children, and it’s easy to assume that a well-known university automatically translates to success. But let’s be real—prestige doesn’t pay the bills.

In today’s economy, college costs are soaring, student debt is crippling families, and financial security is more important than ever. That’s why smart parents are choosing price over prestige when building their teen’s college list.

The Harsh Reality of College Costs

I recently worked with a family whose daughter was accepted into an elite private university with an annual price tag of over $70,000. They were thrilled—until they saw the financial aid package. The total cost to them? Over $50,000 per year.

At the same time, she was also admitted to a well-regarded state university with an offer of nearly full tuition coverage. Their out-of-pocket cost would have been just $5,000 per year. That’s a $180,000 difference over four years.

What would you do?

3 Key Reasons to Prioritize Price Over Prestige

1. Prestige Doesn’t Pay Bills

That elite university won’t cut your student a check when the tuition bill arrives. Parents are draining their retirement accounts, taking out second mortgages, and students are graduating with enormous debt—all for the sake of a name on a diploma. Meanwhile, graduates from affordable schools are launching their careers debt-free, with the same job prospects as those from expensive institutions.

2. The Best Financial Fit = The Best School

A great education isn’t about the name of the school—it’s about the experience and opportunities your teen will have there. Finding the right financial fit ensures your child can focus on their studies without the stress of excessive debt.

Students thrive where they feel supported academically, socially, and financially. Many lesser-known colleges offer amazing resources, career connections, and top-notch programs—without the eye-watering price tag.

3. Prestige Doesn’t Guarantee Success

Think about the successful people you know—entrepreneurs, doctors, engineers, and educators. Did they all graduate from Ivy League schools? Likely not. Success is built on hard work, ambition, and seizing opportunities—not just where a degree comes from.

Many employers prioritize skills, experience, and internships over where someone went to school. The reality is that a well-chosen, affordable college can set your teen up just as well—if not better—than an overpriced name-brand university.

Take the Guesswork Out of the College Search

Making a financially responsible college choice doesn’t mean settling. It means being strategic. That’s where I come in.

With The College List Builder, I’ll create a personalized list of 20+ colleges tailored to your teen’s academic goals, career interests, and most importantly—your family’s financial reality. You’ll also receive a BONUS 30-minute zoom session with me to review the list, discuss options, and ensure your family is on the right track.

Don’t let prestige lead your family into unnecessary debt. Choose price over prestige and set your teen up for success—without financial strain.

➡️ Get The College List Builder + Bonus Strategy Session Now!