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<p>Well, if the school uses non-custodial parent income (which they would if they use something other then federal methodology to calculate EFC) and the non-custodial parent has significant income or is unwilling to provide information, that will likely make the need-based financial aid offer worse than at a federal methodology school that meets need (like the UCs for in-state). But you want to know this beforehand to see if your options for other schools on need-based financial aid are realistic.</p>
<p>Apply now for the cooperative houses. Even if you don’t get into them this year, you may be able to get into them for subsequent years to save money.</p>