How can I compare the net cost of Georgetown and William & Mary?

For most Virginia residents, William & Mary will have the lower net cost, largely because its in-state tuition is substantially below Georgetown’s private-university price. Georgetown can become competitive for families with significant demonstrated financial need, but that should be confirmed through each school’s own calculator and aid offer rather than assumed from sticker price.

Start by running the Net Price Calculator on both colleges’ financial-aid websites using the same current income, assets, household size, and number of children in college. Georgetown’s estimate should reflect its institutional need-based aid methodology; William & Mary’s should reflect Virginia resident tuition and any estimated state, federal, and institutional grants. Compare the estimated family contribution, not merely the total aid amount.

Separate grants and scholarships from loans and work-study. A package that appears larger may include federal loans or student employment, which reduce the bill differently than gift aid. Also check whether each estimate assumes you will live on campus, since housing and food can be meaningful parts of the total.

Include merit scholarships only when you understand whether they are renewable and what GPA or enrollment conditions apply. After admission, compare the official aid letters line by line using those same categories.