<p>apolohno - The issue here is financial need calculations, not financial aid policy. If Amherst decides that the OP’s parents can pay $10k/year from assets every year, while nonetheless unemployed, having a no-loans FA policy won’t be much help.</p>
<p>FYI, Penn State and NYU (especially the latter) are not known for generous need-based aid. Every college or university you talk to will assure you that their financial aid will help pay for college–but don’t just assume that statement will apply to YOU!</p>