It's no secret that the cost of private college can be much higher than that of public schools.

In-state tuition at James Madison University is around $3,600. On the other hand, Bridgewater College is around $35,000.

It's a big hurdle, but approximately 99 percent of Bridgewater students get financial aid of some sort. Many students say it makes all the difference and they depend on that help.

"I'm paying about as much as it would to go to a state school," says Brian Thomas, a Bridgewater student.

"If I wasn't accepted for tuition exchange, there was no way I was coming here," says Garrett Morris.

"I have a pretty good scholarship, so it helps, thank God," says Sarah Orrell.

"I want to get on the Dean's List, keep that scholarship up," says Russell White.

"Through the tuition exchange program with other private schools, I can pretty much go here and have my tuition covered," says Phil Rains.

Bridgewater College manages more than $16 million in financial aid each year.