<p>First…there are MANY homes in NJ that are worth $600,000 that were purchased long ago for $200,000. You might have had the same issue IF you were living in New Jersey.</p>
<p>Second…if your parents were expecting you to attend college in the UK…and have money saved in that amount, you might want to consider that option. </p>
<p>Third…your family contribution will largely be based on your parents’ incomes. Yes…for some schools the equity in your home will be counted at least some. But mostly…it’s income.</p>
<p>Fourth…I’m not sure exactly what you think the schools won’t understand. You are applying as a U.S. citizen but you live overseas. There are lots of student who do the same. </p>
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<p>I don’t understand the above comment at all. You HAD to apply as a U.S. student? How else would you have applied? You are a U.S. citizen.</p>
<p>I think you need to have a very serious discussion with your family about your college education and costs. The reality is that the schools will compute an expected contribution from your family. You can use an EFC calculator and run the numbers. Be sure to convert into U.S. dollars when you do this. This will give you a guestimate of the amount the colleges HERE will expect your family to contribute ANNUALLY. If your family can assume that financial obligation, you are fine. If not, you need to discuss with them your college options.</p>