<p>I do know that many US colleges give financial aid to internationals and about two dozen or so are need-blind for internationals. (You will note that my prior message said that the twins had the option of aplying as NZ citizens, but in most cases that makes it harder to get in.) </p>
<p>However, it was also my understanding that all but the very limited number of US colleges which have eliminated loans as part of a student’s fin aid package require students to take federal loans, before using institutional funds. (See post 10.) My understanding was also that the feds will not dispense fed loans without the FAFSA OR some proof that the person (if over 24) or his parents (if under 24) has paid US income tax and/or was not required to do so legally, e.g., because of low income. </p>
<p>If in fact, “most” private colleges are willing to give ex-pats who haven’t paid US taxes–in defiance of the law–aid packages in which the institution makes up the amount of $ that could have been obtained from federal loans if the person or parents had complied with US laws, I’ve really, really surprised.</p>
<p>That doesn’t mean you aren’t right–just that I find it hard to believe that “most” privat colleges would do this.</p>