How can I compare the true cost of attending Georgetown versus Syracuse University?

The true cost will depend far more on your two financial-aid offers than on sticker price: Georgetown often has a higher published cost, while Syracuse may offer more visible merit-scholarship discounts to some applicants. Georgetown commits to meeting demonstrated financial need for eligible undergraduates, but its aid can include federal work-study and loans depending on your eligibility. Syracuse’s package may combine need-based grants, university merit awards, loans, and work-study, so compare the grant amounts rather than the total award headline.

For a student whose family qualifies for substantial need-based aid, Georgetown can be financially realistic despite its higher listed charges. Put Georgetown’s institutional grant and any outside scholarships against its billed tuition, required fees, housing, and meal plan. Then add likely non-billed costs: travel home, books, personal expenses, and any difference between on-campus and later off-campus housing in D.C., where living costs can be significant.

Make a four-year comparison, not a first-year one. For each offer, subtract only grants and scholarships from the full cost of attendance; list loans separately because they must be repaid, and treat work-study as money you must earn. Check annual tuition increases, scholarship renewal terms, health-insurance charges or waivers, deposits, and your expected travel costs. The lower net price after grants, with the smaller loan obligation across four years, is the more affordable choice.