How should I compare Johns Hopkins and Northwestern for financial aid value?

For a student with limited family resources, compare the two actual aid offers line by line, because both Johns Hopkins and Northwestern state that they meet demonstrated financial need but may calculate that need differently.

Johns Hopkins may be especially compelling if its offer leaves you with little or no billed cost after grants, particularly because Baltimore’s off-campus expenses, health insurance, and travel home can still affect your real annual budget. Confirm whether the Hopkins grant is renewable for four years under the same expected family contribution assumptions, and whether any summer earnings expectation is built into your package.

Northwestern may provide greater value for a student whose award makes Evanston and Chicago living costs manageable or whose family circumstances are better reflected by Northwestern’s institutional need calculation. Check whether its offer includes a work-study allotment: work-study is an opportunity to earn wages, not money automatically credited to your bill. Also separate university grants from any outside scholarship assumptions.

For each school, calculate your four-year estimated family cost as billed charges plus realistic personal, travel, and book costs, minus only guaranteed grants and scholarships. Treat loans, parent borrowing, and optional work-study earnings separately. If one award relies on a family contribution your household cannot realistically pay, submit a financial-aid appeal with documentation of changes such as medical expenses, job loss, reduced income, or one-time income reported on prior tax returns.