One would hope that counselors could tell all students interested in going to college to “talk to your parents about how much they will contribute for your college costs, and check the net price calculator on the web site of each college you are interested in before you make your application list.” No need for any student or family to reveal any household finances to the counselor for the counselor to say that (and/or put it in a printed or web site checklist given to all students before application season).