Is Johns Hopkins or the University of Washington more affordable for an undergraduate student?

For most Washington residents, UW will start out as the less expensive option because you receive in-state tuition. Johns Hopkins has a much higher published cost of attendance, but its need-based aid can make it cheaper for some families with substantial demonstrated financial need.

However, UW aid does not automatically cover the full cost of housing, food, books, transportation, and personal expenses, so compare the complete aid package rather than tuition alone.

The key question is how each college calculates your family’s need. A family that is not eligible for much need-based aid at Hopkins will almost certainly pay far less at UW. A family with lower income, limited assets, and high demonstrated need could receive enough Hopkins grant aid for Hopkins to match or beat UW’s net price, particularly if UW’s offer leaves housing and other expenses uncovered.

Use both schools’ official net price calculators with the same current financial information, then compare the estimated net cost after grants and scholarships, not loans or work-study. When actual offers arrive, focus on the annual amount your family must pay from income, savings, or borrowing, and check whether each grant is renewable for all four years.