<p>MUZICMANn8 - What a thread! There's great advice in here. Normally I'd let well enough alone, but I lived in SF for five years and for the past few years I've been near Brown. And I've just finished getting DD #1 into a competitive college, so my experience is current.</p>
<p>Brown is indeed an incredible place. It's about as close to California as we get on the East Coast! Unfortunately Brown is also relatively poor from an endowment standpoint. There are certainly instances where needy students get aid, but I add my voice to the chorus that says your family's situation will be a tough sell. I think Timcob and zagat have it exactly right.</p>
<p>That stated, you are only going to college once so I would encourage you to vigorously pursue your dream of attending Brown -- vigorously AND ethically. Brown is very difficult to get into. Applying ED will give you an advantage as it is the ultimate demonstration of interest. Yes, the FA package might be insufficient based on today's circumstances. On the other hand, as other posters have pointed out "a lot can change in a year." But to do this ethically you MUST make clear to Brown the minimum amount of grants and scholarships you need. If they accept you and offer less then you can't afford to attend -- and that is a legitimate reason to back out of a ED situation. You should also let your Mom know that you respect her financial situation, and that you will not compromise it -- even if it means turning down a Brown acceptance.</p>
<p>I'd also point out that MOST people on CC who are trying to back out of an ED acceptance are doing so because they've changed their mind about which school they want to attend. I don't recall many instances where the problem was an inadequate FA package.</p>
<p>In summary I say go for your dream, but do in in way that is fair to all parties. And please, DO have a backup plan in case Brown doesn't work out. Good luck to you!</p>
<p>PS, It appears you have a great Mom!</p>