<p>Janesmom, Stanford is not a 568 school. Most of the discussion above concerns 568's - the article referenced discussed both. I believe Stanford says it is going to cap home equity at 1.5x income -- like the 568's, it won't subtract out mortgage debt. </p>
<p>I thought mom365's comments about other costs to consider are important -- they include questions I never thought to ask but which could make a big difference. My daughter's college charges NOTHING for the basic health coverage that all students get -- I am sure that probably some part of the $680/semester "comprehensive fee" covers on-campus health services -- but there are other things that come out of that fee as well - and the fee is part of the cost of attendance considered in the financial aid award, rather than a separate bill or offer we get. The college also offers an extended policy which they recommend for students who do not have other insurance -- which cost around $150 a year. I ended up buying that coverage and then raising the deductible on my daughter's regular policy, which of course is saving me on premiums --so it definitely is a good deal for us. </p>
<p>My d. is also applying to her college for funding for a summer internship. So I guess we got lucky -- but these are good questions for parents to be asking, whether or not their kids qualify for financial aid.</p>