<p>If your son gets into UVA or Wm and Mary, it would make sense to go there considering the in-state savings.</p>
<p>Otherwise, you should apply to the big price-tag privates and see what kind of financial aid package they offer. You can use a financial aid calculator on the web to estimate your EFC or you can ask the financial aid office to give you an estimate. You may qualify for a lot of gift aid. During the three years of overlapping enrollment, your gift aid will be increased. The financial aid office will consider how many children are college at once. (This will PARTIALLY offset the cost.)</p>
<p>PhD programs and some Masters programs are fully funded. They offer assistanships. Professional schools are generally not fully funded. The financial issues may not be as bad as you think during grad school.</p>
<p>I think choice of undergrad school is very important, probably more important than grad school. It is the springboard to grad school.</p>
<p>So I think your son should apply to the Virginia Publics and also a few dream colleges out of state. See what happens re financial aid.</p>