I called Duke today and asked if there was anything that could make the financial aid package more affordable. A lady told me that the only thing I could do would be to reduce my loans and word-study with private scholarships. That’s not going to change my parents’ expected contribution. It looks like I’m going to have to turn them down. I’ll still keep trying to find a way to make things work, but Duke’s not looking too good.
Thanks everybody for the sensible advice. University of Denver is a great choice
OP, my daughter (now a college freshman) was a high stats kid who looked very hard at University of Denver for International Studies because it has a very good reputation. The only reason she didn’t apply was that we did not believe we could afford it after running the Net Price Calculator. It’s a fantastic option to have! You sound like a great kid and I think you’ll do well wherever you land. Best of luck to you!
Excellent decision! You’ll find not worrying about money the next four years freeing and you will have opportunities at Denver because you are a top student
Superb decision to turn down Duke. Absolutely superb. 
I’m sorry Duke wasn’t more sympathetic. You’re making a mature, rational decision. The reality is Duke is unaffordable. You haven’t even calculated in transportation and other “extra” expenses. Plenty of things could go wrong that would only add more stress to your family’s financial situation. With twins, it’s always a package decision as well. You’ve got to take into consideration A + B. (I know, we have twins). As it is, you’ve got extra flexibility and $$ for things like study abroad. Were you accepted to an Honors College at Denver? Those things come with perks, too. Take advantage of them. You’ll in all likelihood be a star at Denver and have your choice of grad schools. It’s definitely hard, but I get the sense you’re going to be perfectly fine. Better than fine.