<p>GPA: 3.5 weighted (school gives +1 to your cumulative GPA for AP/IB classes, doesn't report an "unweighted" gpa)
rank is maybe 95/300 - barely top third
SAT: 2080(710r, 660m, 710w) no SATIIs</p>
<p>Here's the problem: my family income is pretty high, maybe around 200k per year, but that is deceptive. My mom's side doesn't make much at all, and can contribute basically zero. My dad is well-off, but with mortgages, car payments, and a very high cost of living (northern VA - one of the most expensive places to live) it's not like we can easily pay 32k a year to college. </p>
<p>My question is, a) will any college give any merit or need-based aid?
b) how much can I expect to get from something like a work-study program?</p>
<p>First off, you are no different from most other people on this board who would have to stretch to meet expected college payments. BUT, there are some schools that would offer merit aid to you. For instance, Ohio Northern would offer you one of their Dean's scholarships with those stats. Look at Automatic Merit Scholarship thread on this board.</p>
<br>
<blockquote>
<p>My dad is well-off, but with mortgages, car payments, and a very high cost of living (northern VA - one of the most expensive places to live) it's not like we can easily pay 32k a year to college. >></p>
</blockquote>
<br>
<p>Everyone has living expenses. Your car payments and mortgage, and high cost of living really won't matter at all. Simply put...you are living in a high cost of living area, yes...but your dad is making a mighty HIGH salary.</p>
<p>You should, however, consider looking at schools that offer merit aid to students with your SAT/GPA scores. </p>
<p>Re: work study....most schools award that to students with financial need, and that doesn't seem likely in your case.</p>
<p>IMPORTANT...have you talked to your parents about college costs yet? If not, you should do so ASAP. Have a conversation with them about college and what they feel they can reasonably contribute per year. They may already have a plan.</p>
<p>And by the way...you live in VA where the instate universities are terrific...and there are lots to chose from. They don't cost $32K per year for instate residents. Start there.</p>