<p>There are several sites with quick estimators of EFC, or Estimated Family Contribution. No school will give you more than the difference between total cost and EFC. Elite schools, including Wash U, generally guarantee to meet full need, which means they will put together a package that covers the difference between EFC and total cost. That package may include some loans and work study. The quailty of the package varies from one school to the next, and most schools cannot cover the whole gap. </p>
<p>One estimator can be found at: [FinAid</a> | Calculators | QuickEFC](<a href=“http://www.finaid.org/calculators/quickefc.phtml]FinAid”>http://www.finaid.org/calculators/quickefc.phtml)</p>
<p>In general, I would say do NOT be afraid to apply anywhere because of cost. Apply, and find out what aid they can offer. If it is not enough, then don’t attend. But you will never find out if you do not ask.</p>