<p>Prior to applying to schools, there needs to be a conversation between parents and students so that it clear what the parents will be able to provide and how much other sources need to be relied upon. That shouldn’t stop a student from applying to certain schools, but at least they are applying with the knowledge that if merit and grants are not sufficient, they may not be able to attend in the event they are accepted. That doesn’t help the OP now, but it might have made it a little easier to accept having to go to some place else. A financial safety school is one the student would enjoy attending and there is no question as to affordability.</p>