Don't eliminate a school because you think it's too expensive.

Colleges like Harvard, Yale and Stanford have some of the most generous aid packages available for students and their families.

If your student gets admitted, the colleges will work with you.

The higher tuition costs also mean, by default, that your student qualifies for more aid. This is due to the aid calculation method. First, the amount your family is expected to contribute is calculated from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA ) form. Then, the family contribution is deducted from the cost of the college. The resulting figure, which (by definition) is greater for the more pricey institutions, is awarded in aid.

Remember: more expensive colleges may also have a larger private endowment and be more able to give you help, over and above the needs basis calculation.