<p>In another thread, you reveal that you have a non-custodial parent. At the schools that “meet need”, those schools do NOT use FAFSA…they will use CSS Profile AND they will require your dad’s financial info as well…including the info of any new spouse.</p>
<p>You asked about Alabama earlier. You would get the free tuition plus 2500 per year for Eng’g/CS. And since you have a Pell eligible EFC, you would also get a Pell Grant. You might also get Work Study if you submit your FAFSA early (important!) and you would get a 5500 student loan. </p>
<p>The COA is padded. A student doesn’t have to take the most expensive dorms, which are included in the COA. Some kids buy used text books or rent textbooks to save even more. </p>
<p>Your mom would also qualify for the Tuition Tax Credit, which would make it easier for her to help you a little bit.</p>
<p>Alabama would likely be affordable as a safety, so get your app in before the scholarship deadline to get the money (Dec 15).</p>
<p>Since the “meet need” schools will want your dad’s info, do you know how much he earns and how much he’ll help with college? </p>