Just an update-
I researched the CSS Profile and learned that most colleges require the non-custodial parent form. If I were to submit that, my household income would increase by more than 100k. This makes most T20 and Private Institutions completely out of my price range. I understand there is a waiver you can apply for but it seems that most schools are less likely to accept it unless there are extreme circumstances. Should I even still heavily consider these institutions due to this?
I noticed that Vanderbilt and UNC were absent from the list of colleges that require the non-custodial parent form. I completed a net price calculator for Vandy and the package was very generous for our finances. Being a Tennessee resident, Vanderbilt is closer to home and it seems like they admit a fairly high proportion of Tennessee residents each year. I’m now considering whether I should play it safe and apply ED1 to Vandy. I’d get the decision back early whereas UNC is more of a gamble.
How high would my chances be to get admitted ED1 to Vanderbilt? My fairly competitive public high school has not sent a student to Vandy since 2019. Could this increase my chances? Is there a big boost to applying early or is the applicant pool just much more competitive?