<p>^^^</p>
<p>How much can a student earn (outside of work-study) and have it not cause an increase in EFC? Of course, if a school can’t meet EFC, then it probably doesn’t matter if the EFC rises or not. </p>
<p>I feel for Buzymom3, it can be very misleading to get an EFC and (mistakenly) think that that is all one will have to pay. The process sometimes gives a false impression that people pay a “sliding scale” according to their means. In reality, most schools don’t have deep pockets to help people pay, and they sometimes reserve their few dollars towards those with need and high scores…kind of a “You scratch our back (by bringing your high score) and we’ll scratch yours (by helping you out).”</p>
<p>After people have been stung by this, they can at least be more aware when child #2 applies to college.</p>