@ucbalumnus Yes, I think we should qualify for substantial need-based aid. We have an older son at Whitman College who is currently receiving 40k per year in grant money, if that gives you an idea. Son #2 looks like he is going to be the stronger candidate, if things continue without hiccups. You’re right that his insistence on going out of state makes things very difficult, and luckily we have some time to help open up his mind to the idea of an in-state school. 
@TTG Thanks for the tips! He has visited UT-Austin and UW-Seattle campuses. He is open to all sizes of schools in all types of environments… but he really wants to get away from Southern heat/humidity. He wants to be able to run and play outside without feeling like he is going to die. I think he would love Colorado. He is quite interested in Carleton, though is concerned that it doesn’t offer engineering. He also likes the breadth/course selection that a big school can offer him, so… he is all over the map and we really don’t know where to start figuring out where might be a good fit.