<p>Hi! I am a senior in high school and a triplet. As both my brothers and I prepare to go off to college, I am kind of concerned about the money. My parents started saving for our college payments as soon as we were born, and we had enough for all of us. When the stock market began declining, my Mom (who is now supporting our household on a single income) took out enough for 2 years of college for everyone, so we definitely have that much, and I'm sure that the rest hasn't depreciated to $0 value. My one brother will be attending the Naval Academy, so that will help, but my other brother will likely be attending an OOS large public school, and I will be attending an expensive private school (not sure which one yet but trust me-- they're all up there). I don't believe either of us will be receiving merit aid, and here's the thing: my mom REFUSED to fill out the FAFSA because she says we won't get any, which would be true normally but my question is, don't they offer some sort of aid to siblings in college at the same time? And if so, is it too late to take steps to secure any of that money? Any answers would be greatly appreciated, as my tuition will probably be the biggest financial burden, and even though my Mom acts like money is not an issue, I'm sure it still is.</p>
<p>Well, with three in college at once your EFC, whatever it is, would certainly come down! Your mom may be thinking that it still would not qualify you for federal grants. Maybe state grants - I know in NY that the income levels for state aid are much higher. Some scholarships and college aid is based on financial need, which is COA minus EFC. If you have no calculated EFC, then I guess they would assume you have no financial need which could mean you’re leaving money on the table! Also, without submitting FAFSA you and you brother won’t be able to take Stafford loans which every student qualifies for. These are offered at much better rates than private loans. </p>
<p>Some parents are adamantly opposed to sharing financial info with colleges. I know several people of this mindset and they’re willing to pay in full with no griping. If that’s your Mom’s philosophy, then that’s just the way it is.</p>
<p>With 2 in college at the same time (the brother in the service academy is not counted as on in college for financial aid purposes) the parent part of the EFC will be divided between the 2 of you. So if it was 20,000 then it would become 20,000/2 = 10,000. It may or may not make you eligible for aid depending on what your EFC is. Your private school may also require CSS/profile. Many of the more expensive private schools do.</p>