We are in California, and my son wants to do EECS

So we are evaluating if he should go to one of those "top" schools or not. 

Thanks for your inputs. It is very helpful.

If it is your son (hardcore engineering/science type), would you send him to those "top" schools or keep him to Cal?  Why and why not?

(We are middle class parents, so he has no chance of finanical aids.  Money is an issue, but not the tipping point)