I’m a little surprised about the OP’s comments about the business. Pretty much ALL meet need colleges have NPCs that are inaccurate for small business owners and definitely will reduce your aid. I’m a small business owner (with fluctuating revenues), so I’ve been down this path. Didn’t let kids have “dream schools” or get coaxed into applying ED, though. Part of your job as a parent is to keep an even keel. Clarify financial limitations and encourage your kid to keep an open mind about their whole list of colleges.