<p>How were your offers? S was accepted and would love to attend, but no responsible individual would borrow as much as we'd have to borrow to send him. We were disappointed. </p>
<p>We will talk to the financial aid office, but even in the event of a favorable meeting, I can't see how they would raise his aid by more than a few thousand.</p>
<p>Family breadwinner lost job in fall, received severance package, so income figures are inflated. This we explained. The problem is that even if we could swing it for next year with using severance money and substantial loans, we simply don't have the general savings or retirement savings to do it thereafter, based on EFC projections for future earnings. Our income is well under 100,000 in NJ, where cost of living is high and going higher. We already live in the cheapest housing in our town (aside from government subsidized), drive inexpensive cars, eat spaghetti regularly, cut our own hair, and generally live a frugal life style.. Younger D has special needs sister, so mom stays home to tend and tutor, but occasionally works free lance. Any suggestions from financial wizards out there?</p>