<p>I think the disparity individuals see between different schools (NYU gives awful aid vs. NYU gives amazing aid) has to do with school policies. They want to keep the best kids. And NYU is notorious for shafting average kids but throwing money at kids they are afraid they will lose to 'better' schools.</p>
<p>Unless your child is in the top whatever percent of the admitted pool, then he/she is unfortunately going to get the short end of the stick.</p>
<p>I would also point out that the 'no loan' programs at most schools really are for low income families. Columbia for example, has a program for low income students that would give a legitimate full ride (with some work study) to admitted students in a family of four that makes less than about $26,000 dollars.</p>
<p>So low income is REALLY low income.</p>
<p>A poster earlier noted that for her child UT-Austin would cost upwards of $20,000 a year even though she was in-state. I could've gone a full ride out of state WITH a stipend.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, outside of the Ivies who are going to get great kids regardless, most schools are really just looking to attract the best kids and that's where the majority of the money goes.</p>
<p>Is it fair? No.</p>