There are scenarios where the parents can’t afford to contribute very much but have a not-insignificant EFC, whether because they own a business, have unusual expenses or didn’t prepare well. Add in a kid with stats that won’t get major merit and state publics with high tuition, and even the 2 year CC + 2 years in-state public route could come out at more than 30K. We’re not talking 160K here, but still more than could be covered with the federal loans.