Trust In Him posted:The financial aid is based on FAFSA at all schools, thus the final amount would apply anywhere. The grant/scholarship money (academic and athletic) are the ones that can be manipulated. Private/Ivy universities generally have big endowment and supporters. Even though it might cost a few buck to visit these schools and camps it might turn out for the best. Once son gets these schools narrowed down to best fit, schedule an appointment with financial aid office (keep coaches also appraised) and see what the bottom line cost will be. You would be surprised to see how much academic money is given when the athletic money doesn't meet your expectations. This works best where the coach really wants son to play for him. My nephew plays college basketball at a private university. A financial offer was presented to nephew, didn't meet their expectation since would still cost too much. Talks went on for a few months, each time university found more money. At the end of the day, final offer was something like $29K more than original offer. If they really want your kid, there will be a way. Good luck
I'm sorry, but the bold is simply not true for schools that also use the CSS. Yes, you have to fill out the FAFSA for all schools, but most private/HA also require, and use, the CSS.
If you use a FAFSA and CSS calculator for a given school, you will notice different aide, especially if you have home equity.