**Best Colleges for Financial Aid: Top 10 Ranked by The Princeton Review**
In the current landscape of higher education, the cost of attending a four-year college or university is reaching unprecedented heights. With expenses such as tuition, fees, room and board, books, transportation, and various other costs factored in, the price tag for a year of college is nearing an eye-watering $100,000. However, despite the soaring costs, most students and their families do not end up paying the full amount, thanks to various forms of financial aid available to them.
According to Sameer Gadkaree, the president of The Institute for College Access and Success, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting college affordability, families rely on federal aid, including loans, work-study programs, and grants, to bridge the affordability gap. While federal aid plays a crucial role in helping students finance their education, the reality is that many students still find themselves taking on significant debt to cover their college expenses. Gadkaree points out, “we have created this situation where students can’t just work their way through college without taking on debt. It’s simply, the math doesn’t work.”
**Challenges with Financial Aid Application**
The process of applying for financial aid can be daunting for many families, with the new federal student aid application form causing some concerns. The complexity of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) has led to issues that may persist into the upcoming application season, as the U.S. Department of Education recently announced a delayed start in December. With the cost of college ranking as the number one concern for families, any problems with the FAFSA are likely to have a significant impact on students and their parents.
Robert Franek, the editor in chief of The Princeton Review, emphasizes the importance of financial assistance from colleges in alleviating concerns about college affordability. The Princeton Review recently released its rankings of colleges based on student satisfaction with their financial aid packages. The 2025 edition of the college guide is derived from surveys of 168,000 students during the 2023-24 school year, highlighting schools that excel in providing financial assistance and easing worries about paying for higher education.
**Top Colleges for Financial Aid**
The Princeton Review’s rankings shed light on colleges that go above and beyond in meeting students’ financial needs. These institutions not only offer generous financial aid packages but also provide reassurance to students and families that they can afford a quality education without incurring excessive debt. Franek notes, “These colleges are saying, ‘You do not have to mortgage your future to pay for school — we are meeting you where you are.'”
Among the top colleges for financial aid, some standout institutions have been recognized for their commitment to helping students afford their education. The average scholarship grant awarded to students with financial need at these colleges in the 2023-24 academic year exceeded $70,000, showcasing their dedication to making higher education accessible to all.
**1. Skidmore College**
Located in Saratoga Springs, New York, Skidmore College stands out for its robust financial aid offerings. With a sticker price of $85,230, the average need-based scholarship awarded is $53,700, resulting in a total out-of-pocket cost of $31,530 for students. Skidmore College meets 100% of the financial need for first-year students receiving need-based aid, demonstrating its commitment to making education affordable for all.
**2. Gettysburg College**
Situated in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, Gettysburg College is another institution known for its generous financial aid packages. With a sticker price of $82,750, the average need-based scholarship awarded is $54,032, leading to a total out-of-pocket cost of $28,718 for students. Gettysburg College meets 90% of the financial need for first-year students with need-based aid, making it an attractive option for those seeking financial assistance.
**3. Washington University**
Located in St. Louis, Washington University is renowned for its strong financial aid program. With a sticker price of $87,644, the average need-based scholarship awarded is $65,777, resulting in a total out-of-pocket cost of $21,867 for students. Washington University meets 100% of the financial need for first-year students with need-based aid, showcasing its dedication to supporting students from diverse financial backgrounds.
**4. Olin College of Engineering**
Based in Needham, Massachusetts, Olin College of Engineering is a top choice for students seeking financial aid. With a sticker price of $86,993, the average need-based scholarship awarded is $56,825, leading to a total out-of-pocket cost of $30,168 for students. Olin College of Engineering meets 100% of the financial need for first-year students with need-based aid, making it a promising option for those interested in pursuing engineering education.
**5. Wabash College**
Located in Crawfordsville, Indiana, Wabash College is committed to providing financial support to its students. With a sticker price of $65,200, the average need-based scholarship awarded is $39,846, resulting in a total out-of-pocket cost of $25,354 for students. Wabash College meets 94% of the financial need for first-year students with need-based aid, demonstrating its dedication to making education accessible to all.
**6. College of the Atlantic**
Based in Bar Harbor, Maine, the College of the Atlantic is known for its inclusive financial aid policies. With a sticker price of $58,401, the average need-based scholarship awarded is $39,055, leading to a total out-of-pocket cost of $19,346 for students. The College of the Atlantic meets 96% of the financial need for first-year students with need-based aid, making it a desirable option for those seeking financial assistance.
**7. Thomas Aquinas College**
Located in Santa Paula, California, Thomas Aquinas College is dedicated to supporting students with financial need. With a sticker price of $41,400, the average need-based scholarship awarded is $18,709, resulting in a total out-of-pocket cost of $22,691 for students. Thomas Aquinas College meets 100% of the financial need for first-year students with need-based aid, underscoring its commitment to making education affordable for all.
**8. Reed College**
Situated in Portland, Oregon, Reed College is recognized for its strong financial aid program. With a sticker price of $87,010, the average need-based scholarship awarded is $47,265, leading to a total out-of-pocket cost of $39,745 for students. Reed College meets 100% of the financial need for first-year students with need-based aid, making it a promising choice for those seeking financial assistance.
**9. Williams College**
Located in Williamstown, Massachusetts, Williams College is renowned for its generous financial aid offerings. With a sticker price of $85,820, the average need-based scholarship awarded is $70,764, resulting in a total out-of-pocket cost of $15,056 for students. Williams College meets 100% of the financial need for first-year students with need-based aid, showcasing its commitment to supporting students from diverse financial backgrounds.
**10. Princeton University**
Based in Princeton, New Jersey, Princeton University is known for its comprehensive financial aid program. With a sticker price of $82,650, the average need-based scholarship awarded is $70,246, leading to a total out-of-pocket cost of $12,404 for students. Princeton University meets 100% of the financial need for first-year students with need-based aid, making it a top choice for those seeking financial assistance.
In conclusion, the top colleges for financial aid recognized by The Princeton Review demonstrate a commitment to making higher education accessible and affordable for students from diverse financial backgrounds. By offering generous financial aid packages, these institutions ensure that students can pursue their academic goals without being burdened by excessive debt. As the cost of college continues to rise, the importance of financial aid in making education affordable cannot be overstated.