That’s fair but more Gtown is not on common app. So getting the recommendation etc it’s all duplicative.
So if you’re really going to turn it down if no aid, then run the NPC.
These kids get burned out. Applying to 8 or 10 schools. Gtown, if it’s just for ego but zero chance of going, will be crushing when you’re trying to get the last apps done and he’s burned out.
Or if he gets in, you’re going regardless of cost bcuz if you can’t say no now ( if you know it’s not affordable), how can you say no then ?
Duke at least is on common and does have merit aid albeit highly unlikely. But those are the kind worth trying.
If you’re a merit hunter, you are going more apps so keep that in mind as you consider the work a Gtown requires that’s far above common app.
edit - i’ll add i learned about no merit schools on the gtown tour. that night, in the hotel, we removed a bunch of schools from consideration as we are full pay.