I think she meant that only 40% or up to $1,000 of AOTC is refundable. So if there is no tax liability to reduce, the maximum credit they might qualify for is $1,000.
I did say that qualified fees might be able to be claimed for AOTC for up to $2,500, if family qualifies ( there are upper income limits that apply as well).
And I agree, the NPC and college aid letter should clearly outline those fees. And that tuition scholarship doesn’t cover them.