<p>TAP may not come into the picture as it does look for both parents’ financials. </p>
<p>OP, there are PROFILE schools that do not ask for NCP info. Do some research on those. I don’t want to list any that I think might be in that category, because things change quickly and they may have had a change in policy; also, I’m not so sure. You have to check out each school individually about such requirements because, yes, things do change. That, and any number of schools that give out good merit awards are the way to go. along with the SUNYs and other schools that are affordable for you.</p>
<p>What is the cost to attend SUNY schools as an instate resident? My understanding is they are quite a good bargain.</p>
<p>direct cost- living at home & commuting (tuition and fees ) ~ 7500
direct cost (tuition fees room and board )$19,502</p>
<p>Tuition and fees which are the mandatory costs are around $7500, though it varies from school to school. The schools do use FAFSA to determine need, and most if not all will meet need in terms of of tuition and fees, using whatever the student is eligible to get in terms of federal and state monies first, and then supplementing with their own funds. Kelsmom is very much the expert on exactly how this is done. Commuting costs can vary. If you live in NYC, a Metropass is $100, </p>
<p>The universities, other than possibly StoneyBrook tend to be in areas where off campus housing tends to be cheap and plentiful, from what I have seen. And a lot of the kids move off campus, so costs can be reduced in that area. Those in the upper 10% of their class and majoring in STEM who work 5 years in the state in such a field get free tuition. </p>
<p>No NYer is likely to go without a college education due to cost due to the structure of these schools. Even if you are full pay, don’t qualify for aid due to family financial situation but parents won’t pay, it is doable with a summer and part time job. My son worked for extra money during all his years at a SUNY< and his off campus housing was dirt cheap. He says finding a job on or around campus was very easy. Also, you are in good company with many who want a college education but are doing so on a lean budget. </p>