<p>I think that you are thinking along the right lines. First of all you are a HS Sophomore, and from your parents point of view you ARE a little girl. However, a year from now, you and everyone you know will start the college search process. Make sure your parents attend the parents meetings at school where ADULTS from your guidance department will explain the financial aid process to them and ADULTS will convince them that you do have unprecedented opportunities in the US. This may show them the light. </p>
<p>You’re going to at least need them to fill out the financial aid forms for you to even be considered. If you can do that, and can get great test scores, you could be a very good candidate to get a full ride merit scholarship from the University of Pittsburgh. This full ride, which includes room and board, effectively makes you financially independent. I think that this is a great ticket for someone who really needs to break away from domineering parents. Unfortunately, I rarely read about people who post on CC who use it for that purpose. </p>
<p>If your EFC turns out to be pretty low, the top schools will give you great financial aid, but there will still be a self-help portion. </p>
<p>Either way, you have some time to sort things out.</p>