Help))) Should I change the expected family contribution?

Paying for College
1

Hi! I’m an Asian international applicant, and I am applying for financial aid to U.S. colleges. My family’s annual income is about $150k.

First time when my mother found out how much U.S. college education costs, she was really shocked because the tuition was so expensive. Then, she told me that she is not going to pay over $25000, and I’ll have to pay the rest if the college doesn’t give enough financial aid(I tried to persuade her for more than three months, but it was impossible). So I wrote EFC of $25000 and submitted them to all of my early action and decision colleges(in CSS profile).

Then, a few weeks ago, my mom and I were talking together, and she suddenly realized that she has to pay more and that most colleges are need-aware to international students. Then she told me that she has changed her mind and that she will pay up to $30000. So when applying to RD colleges, I put EFC of $30000. (I really thought this is going to be it.)

But then, just now, I saw my mom had written down $35000 in my international student financial aid application(for a college that doesn’t accept the CSS profile). When I asked her, she told me that she changed her mind again. (Wow, I submitted my CSS profile to all of my colleges only a few days ago.)

So this is my question: should I tell all my colleges (that I’ve submitted my CSS profile) that my EFC has been changed? Does showing that I can pay $5000 or $10000 more increases my chance of admission? Is it important for colleges to know that I can pay more?

Thanks:)

2

It does not matter what you put down. The school will determine how much your family can afford to pay. As an international student, they will also decide if they can or will fund the balance over what your family is required to pay

3

YOU do not decide your EFC. The college does. I know they ask what you think you can pay. Your answer has no impact.

4

As others have already said, it really does not matter what number you put down; the school will tell you what it expects you to pay, regardless of what you or your mother wants to pay.