The maximum amount your son can take out for a 4 year degree is $27k. Parents are expected to pay the rest of the tuition. If you are unable, then there is often additional Pell grant money, and some schools could offer additional financial aid, but that’s often a gamble. The best thing to do is to fill out the FAFSA and see what the financial aid package offers. If you’re credit worthy, there are Parent Plus loans offered at most major banks. If we’re in the situation where you’re unable to pay and you’re unable to help with the financing, it might be best to start at a community college. Also, there are ROTC scholarships available.