Though I very much doubt it is the case with either of the two school mentioned, I have seen cases where people consider a PLUS loan as well as other unsub loans and self help, financial aid. Because the school listed them on the fin aid letter. SOme sadly, thought some of those loans were guaranteed and when they could not get them, their kids could not go to that college. My one son’s “girlfriend” a few years ago was in that situation.
We can guess all day, but given the uncertainties that go into the black box of other people’s personal busineess, I would not bother.