Match/Chance me: (confused) INTL student needs your help

One question I have for all is - how does an international student determine their need?

Many of you have said NPCs are not accurate for international.

Many students say they can afford this or that - but that doesn’t mean the school will agree.

Should the student contact an aid officer for a pre-read, etc?

I just wonder if many are going down a path that won’t work, even if they get in.

Thanks