The College Discount Game You Need To Know Before Choosing A School | Ron Lieber | 191

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Jan 18, 2026

Ron Lieber, a personal finance expert and author of 'The Price You Pay for College,' dives deep into the often perplexing world of college costs. He reveals why most families pay less than the sticker price, explains the importance of understanding a school's 'Common Data Set,' and discusses the value of merit versus need-based aid. Lieber also highlights strategies for first-generation students, the benefits of community college transfers, and practical tips for negotiating financial aid. Get ready for insightful advice on navigating college affordability!

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INSIGHT

List Price Is Not The Real Price

Colleges publish a legal 'cost of attendance' list price but most students never pay that full rack rate.
The actual price families pay varies wildly because schools negotiate discounts via need-based and merit aid.

ADVICE

Use Public Data And Net Price Tools

Use each school's Common Data Set to see historical discounting and what students actually pay.
Run every school's Net Price Calculator and cross-check with Niche before you fall in love with a campus.

ADVICE

Get A Pre-Read Before You Apply

Fill out each school's Net Price Calculator with your real numbers before applying to estimate likely cost.
Ask admissions/financial aid for a pre-read of your likely merit award if your situation is complex.

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The cost of college is skyrocketing! To make sure you're not paying those sticker prices, we brought in New York Times 'Your Money' columnist, Ron Lieber. He is also author of 'The Price You Pay for College' and joins the show for a brutally honest walkthrough of what is actually going on behind the scenes. In this episode he breaks down:

List price vs. cost of attendance
Why most families don't pay rack rate
How to read a school's 'Common Data Set'
Merit vs. need-based aid
How net price calculators and pre-reads can keep you from falling in love with a school you can't afford

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📕 Books by Ron Lieber

🌐 Merit Aid Course (with link to free merit aid checklist)

Ron's New York Times Profile

Niche (for comparing colleges)

Saving For College (Compare 529 Plans)

⏰ Related Episodes

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The New World of 529 College Savings | Patricia Roberts (Coming Soon)

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📌Disclaimer: Our content is for general education and information purposes only. We are not providing financial, legal, or tax advice. Always do your own research or consult a professional before making important decisions.