Smith College financial aid

The sticker price at Smith College is $86,030 per year, but most students do not pay that. Average institutional aid is $58,451, which brings the average net cost down to $27,579 per year. Aid covers more than half of the sticker price for the typical aided student.

Need-based aid is targeted at families that demonstrate financial need. Schools with strong endowments (most Ivies, top private universities, top liberal arts colleges) typically meet a higher share of demonstrated need than less-endowed schools. The net price calculator on the school's website is the most accurate way to see what your family would actually pay.

The FAFSA is the federal application for student aid. It opens each year on October 1, and most schools recommend filing as early as possible. The FAFSA is what the school uses (along with the CSS Profile at many private schools) to calculate your family's expected contribution and offer aid accordingly. File it even if you think your family will not qualify for need-based aid; it is the gateway to federal loans and merit consideration.

• How much financial aid does Smith College give on average?

  Average institutional aid at Smith College is $58,451 per year.

• What does Smith College actually cost after aid?

  Average net cost is $27,579 per year. The actual number for your family depends on income, assets, and whether the school meets full demonstrated need.

• Should I file the FAFSA even if my family is high-income?

  Yes. The FAFSA is the gateway to federal loans (which are not need-based) and many merit aid considerations. It is also free and takes under an hour. There is no income above which it stops being worth filing.

• What is the difference between merit aid and need-based aid?

  Need-based aid is based on your family's financial situation (income, assets, family size). Merit aid is based on academic, athletic, or other achievements and does not require demonstrated need. Some schools (especially most Ivies) only give need-based aid; many others give a mix.

• Does Smith College meet full financial need?

  Smith College's aid coverage varies. Run the net price calculator on their website for an estimate that reflects your specific situation.