<p>We all know that the CSS/PROFILE has the question "how much does the parent expect to contribute towards college expenses." </p>
<p>How do we initiate this discussion? There needs to be some sort of estimate on the form. So far, both of my parents (custodial and non) have no clue how much they would contribute.</p>
<p>They need to spend some time figuring this out. A necessary evil, just like taxes. Ask each parent the question- tell them you need an answer by X date. They know their respective incomes and expenses, they need to sit down and see how much money is left after expenses and/or where lifestyle cuts would be made to use for college. Some parents will have money that can be used to help with college instead of being saved, others need to decide if luxuries/vacations should be modified. NO parent should decrease their retirement contributions to fund a college education- that money can never be recouped whereas loans can be paid off.</p>
<p>They need to figure this out soon. If you are filling out the profile does that mean you are going to college in the fall? How do you know you can afford the school you have chosen? How do you know you have a school on your list that you can afford? Yikes, this conversation should have happened about a year ago.</p>
<p>*So far, both of my parents (custodial and non) have no clue how much they would contribute. *</p>
<p>I imagine that because there are two of you (twins), your parents are thinking…hmmm…whatever we budget for one, we’ll have to budget for the other. </p>
<p>I don’t know how your parents live, but if they don’t have much left over each month, they may fear that they don’t have much or anything to contribute.</p>
<p>You and your twin need to have this discussion. If they are avoiding the issue, that can be a sign that they can’t contribute much or are afraid to give a number and then not be able to “follow thru.” But, whatever the situation is, you need to know ASAP. So, you and your twin need to talk to each of your parents. </p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p>@ebeeeee- I applied to 9 schools, only 5 are CSS/Profile schools. I have two safeties and two match that I think I can get good merit based aid.</p>
<p>Im going to sit down and have the discussion…</p>