How to Choose Between Two Colleges When You Love Both

The Pro/Con List Isn't Enough

Everyone says "make a pro/con list." The problem: both schools will have long pro lists and short con lists — that's why you're stuck. You need a different framework.

The 10-10-10 Test

Ask yourself: How will I feel about this decision in 10 days? 10 months? 10 years? The 10-day answer captures your emotional reaction. The 10-month answer captures your freshman experience. The 10-year answer captures the career and financial impact. If one school wins on 10 years but loses on 10 days, go with the 10-year answer.

The Money Test

If both schools cost exactly the same, which would you choose? This removes financial pressure and reveals your true preference. Now: how much more would the other school need to cost for you to switch? If $5,000/year changes your mind, cost matters more than you think.

The Major Test

Which school is better specifically for your intended major? Not overall ranking — ranking for YOUR field. Check graduation rates, median earnings, and employer recruiting for your specific program at each school. Use Ask Kinsley's comparison tool for this.

The Regret Minimization Test

Imagine it's 5 years from now and you chose School A. Do you regret not picking School B? Now reverse it. The scenario that causes less regret is usually the right choice.

When All Else Fails

If you genuinely can't decide after all this analysis, go with the cheaper option. When two schools are truly equal in fit and quality, the one that leaves you with less debt gives you more freedom after graduation. Financial flexibility is its own form of opportunity.