<p>I'm not sure on that 35% number but I think the original poster is missing the point that either way you have to pay. </p>
<p>If they had saved a bunch of money and bought a car, they would still be expected to pay a similar amount as they would had they not bought a car. The benefit to not buying a car is that maybe you dont have to work, or all the money from working can go straight to your pocket or your savings and not to the school. I know that your goal isn't to shortchange the school simply to be able to use your money for you, but the school is going to get some of your money whether you have to work, pay back loans, or pay up front.</p>