Everyone wants full pay kids - but not everyone can get them.
The tippy top can.
Most can’t - hence they discount.
What kind of school are we talking about.
In the end, you guide like this - son, we can spend $50K tuition room and board. Don’t say $50-60K.
Pick a #.
If the school meets that cost, you can go.
If it doesn’t, you can’t - end of story.
Since we don’t qualify for need aid, you’ll need to get at least x merit for us to send you.
It’s that simple.
My daughter had a $50K budget. She liked American a lot. They gave us $15K.
There was no discussion - she knew it wasn’t on the table.
It’s all about setting expectations up front.
If he wants to apply and they offer merit (some don’t), then let him apply - but set the rule up front - even write it down and sign it like a contract if needed.
And ensure he has another school that he’s be happy to attend, that’s near assured and affordable.
And by the way, there are public LACs that will be under budget.