Meaning your parents do not claim you on their taxes. You would not be their dependant. If you pay for over 50% of your expenses I would seriously consider this route. You will still be covered under their health insurance until you are at least 25 Im sorry your dad is being an A$$. Id make sure he isnt claiming you on his tax for the child tax credit. We are essentially in the same boat as you. We make too much money to qualify for federal aid. Got accepted to both UVA and Michigan, neither offer merit scholarships except to a VERY small percentage and they are also need based. While UVA (in state for us) is arguably just as good if not a better school than U of M. My daughter really wants to go to U of M. Our income changed by $85,000 for 2017 so I wrote the financial aid office a letter this morning with tax transcripts for 2016 and 2017. I will let you know how it goes but I would highly recommend sending a letter to the aid office and tell them your story EXACTLY the way you presented it here. Does Swarthmore require the CSS?