Here's the definition of who qualifies for a Simplified Needs Test:
Quote:
Simplified Calculation
If you (your spouse) or anyone in your household or you, your parents, or anyone in your parent's household, received benefits in 2006 from certain federal benefit programs and have an income of $50,000 or less (your AGI in Q35 or your parent's AGI in Q79 if not filing a tax return) or (your earned income in Q38-39 or your parent's earned income in Q82-83 if not filing a tax return), you may qualify for an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) that does not count all of your income and assets.
The benefit programs that qualify you for this exemption are the:
Supplemental Security Income Program (SSI)
Food Stamp Program
Free or Reduced Price School Lunch Program
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).
If you were a recipient of any of these benefit programs at any time during 2006 and have already completed your FAFSA, check with your financial aid office to find out if your information should be adjusted.
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FAFSA - Free Application for Federal Student Aid
Note that the quote does say 2006, because the 2007 year forms (for school year 2008-2009) are not available until January 1. The definition should remain the same, I believe. It looks like you will be able to qualify for the Simplified Calculations, if you and your H earn less than $50,000.
I strongly suggest that you go to
FinAid! Financial Aid, College Scholarships and Student Loans and read as much of the information there as you can.
As to whether your son should work, aside from the financial aid issue - I know many kids who were busy with ECs and didn't have paid jobs who had excellent admissions results.
Volunteer work can definitely be put on a resume or in the application, and will stand him in good stead. ECs certainly go on a resume or in the application.
Good luck to him, and you!