<p>I don’t see the point in not applying, really - you almost certainly qualify for fee waivers, so it really shouldn’t be much of a problem. On the other hand, if you’ve got other schools to fill those spots, by all means, apply. If you are in the first row, first column of BU’s matrix, you have a good chance for $31,000 to $47,000 worth of GIFT AID. That’s not including loans or even work study, which you will probably get another 2000 worth of. 25% of applicants in that box get more than $47,000 (GIFT AID) toward a COA of $52,000.</p>
<p>Unlike full-need schools, you won’t know what your financial aid package will be until you try and if you try. BU and GWU are on a very case-by-case basis with financial aid, since their aid packages are merit-based but need-aware. For example, if you search the GW board, you’ll find that many students with low EFCs got packages of greater than $50,000 in free money. There were even a few students with low EFCs whose packages exceeded the billed expenses (since GW factors in personal expenses to its COA, like some schools - I can’t remember if Boston does or not). Then, there were a few students with low EFCs who only got $30,000 or so (leaving $25,000 per year!).</p>
<p>The best way to handle the FA issue is to apply to a lot of schools. Apply to your local public, but keep in mind that at most public schools, no matter the COA, you’ll be expected to take out the full Stafford loan load - which is about $25,000 total. Apply to that school, apply to a couple of matches (or safeties) with great financial aid reputations but with no guarantees, and then apply to some 100% need, no loans schools. Only when you are able to compare packages will you be able to choose what’s best for you.</p>