How do I compare the affordability of Johns Hopkins and Boston University based on financial aid?

The biggest practical difference is that Johns Hopkins’ aid for eligible domestic students is designed to meet demonstrated need without federal student loans, while Boston University may combine need-based grants with loans and work-study, but can also offer significant merit scholarships to some applicants. Both schools use the FAFSA and CSS Profile to determine institutional need, so their estimates can differ substantially even when your family’s finances are the same.

Start with each school’s net price calculator, using identical and current family income, assets, household size, and number of siblings in college. Treat the resulting net price as a planning estimate, not a guarantee. Then compare actual aid offers line by line: grants and scholarships reduce your bill; loans must be repaid; work-study is earned only if you obtain and work an eligible job.

At Hopkins, a strong need-based offer may be especially favorable for a family with demonstrated need because the no-loan policy can keep the four-year debt burden lower. Also compare indirect costs, including health insurance, travel, books, and annual tuition or housing increases, rather than focusing only on the first-year bill.

For a family unable to pay full price, Hopkins is likely to be the more predictable affordable option when it calculates substantial need, while BU can become the lower-cost choice only if its combined need-based and merit aid produces a clearly lower four-year net cost.