I totally get what you’re saying. But it’s entirely possible that after filling out all the financial aid docs, that NW could said “yay! you don’t have to pay $60,000 - we have decided your EFC based on your financials if $15,000 a year”.
Then what? What if you just can’t squeak out that money? Do they take your word for it and give your an additional $15,000 more?
My oldest is at Vanderbilt. We do not qualify for federal financial aid. And while the amount that Vandy gives us in the amount of grants is HUGE, we do pay X amount per year. And it’s not a small amount by any means.
Basically, I think it’s awesome that Northwestern is saying/doing this. I would just caution anyone that it doesn’t necessarily mean free.