<p>Family situation is also a consideration in debt. If a student comes from a family that can help with the loans, that 's one thing. But when you are a student whose family has a zero EFC, to expect assistance in those payments is a whole other story. </p>
<p>Is CMU even offering loans to the student for $25K a year or is this something the student has to find on her own? It is doubtful a student can find a loan for these amount without a cosigner, and is the family willing to be responsible for this amount of debt?</p>
<p>You can always appeal to CMU. If you have a good offer from another college, let them know and reiterate your family financial situation. I cannot imagine anyone from financial aid that could give an 18 year old that much in loans without a cosigner, and a family who is at zero EFC should not be taking on that kind of debt even if they could pass the credit check under most scenarios. </p>
<p>As a rule, I look at the STafford maximums as good limits for students. For those students who are in a very tight situation with little or no family help might even rethink those limits and look at the Stafford subsidized limits as what they should optimally borrow. Those kids whose families are willing to help out can consider larger amounts, but in any case should know the time and amount that these loans are going need.</p>