If you're a student and struggling to pay the bill for tuition, housing, books, living costs, and other expenses this list might make you feel better. It seems like universities try to squeeze out every last penny they can get from you. Millions of students every year have to pay out the big bucks and many have to go into debt to earn their degree.  However, you're tuition bill probably isn't this bad. These are the top 10 most expensive schools in the United States and look at the hefty price tag they come along with.

1. Sarah Lawrence College – $54,410
2. New York University – $51,991
3. George Washington University – $51,730
4. Bates College – $51,300
5. Skidmore College – $51,196
6. Johns Hopkins University – $51,190
7. Georgetown University – $51,122
8. Connecticut College – $51,115
9. Harvey Mudd College – $51,037
10. Vassar College – $50,875

Calculations relating to prices for the 2009-2010 school year were based solely on tuition and room and board. By judging these figures, students that graduate from these colleges must fit into one of three categories. They are either from a wealthy family, incredibly smart with tons of scholarships, or they are very far in debt. Or I guess there is a fourth option; they found a sugar daddy somewhere.

What's interesting about the schools on this list is that many of them are small and private. Another thing is that half of these schools I have never heard of. So this leads me to the conclusion that they must offer unique degrees, give a lot of scholarships and grants in order for students to attend, or it's a family tradition to attend here. It just seems like a lot of money to spend on a degree when students can get the same degree and a great education somewhere else for half the price.

Hopefully these students after earning their degrees can find a high paying job. Especially, if left with a lot of student debt. I'm sure that these schools offer a great education but there are other great institutions that have a modest to moderate price tag. Although when it boils down to it, an education in today's world is essential, so if you can attend these universities without going really far into debt do it. Otherwise, stick to accredited colleges and universities that don't have such a hefty price tag.

Because of the economy many students are rethinking their expensive private school education.  Rachel Harrison who had been attending an expensive private school in New York has had to make a difficult decision.  Should she continue at her $40,000-a-year-private school or leave and enroll at a cheaper school near her home in Arizona. 

After weighing the pros and cons, Harrison decided that she like many other students across the nation would move home and attend a cheaper university.  Not only would she get in state tuition in Arizona, but it would also be cheaper to live there.

Attending classes at her private college was no longer financially possible, unless she wanted to leave school over $100,000 dollars in debt.  The one year of school, almost drained her college fund.  Not only are college students being forced to make a college change, but high school seniors are also being forced to make this same decision.

Many high school seniors have already decided to forgo costly schools.  Instead they have decided to attend schools that are closer to home and have cheaper tuition.  Many public colleges have seen an increase in the number of transfer applications this year.  Many students reported their decision to transfer was due to money.

Some tips for determining whether an expensive institution is right for you.  First of all, make sure that the expensive private school is really what you want and need.  Second, make sure that you will still be able to go to grad school, medical, or law school after earning your bachelor’s degree. 

And if you already attended the expensive school but are considering transferring to a different school but you have already completed two years of a degree, then it may be better to stay at your school.  Otherwise, you might have to spend an extra semester or two retaking classes required by the new school.

So the take home message is make sure that an expensive institution is right for you.  Make sure you have a lot of money and a financial plan beyond the first year.  Have realistic expectations and really consider your options.  And make sure that when you have chosen a degree that you are going to stick with it; or else you will waste a lot of time and money.