You're a senior. You've got 5-6 worthwhile college acceptances you're considering. College A gave you $35,000 in merit aid. College B gave you $40,000 in merit aid. College C gave you $25,000 in merit aid. Chat, we're going to College B, right? No brainer. But.... the reality is not so clear. You have to look deeper. College A charges $ 67,000 tuition and averages at $13,000 room and board, for a total cost of $80,000. College B charges $ 73,000 tuition and averages $14,500