I feel for all of you who have had bad results, but figured I should chime in with our better results so anyone looking can have a whole picture to consider.
UR turned out to be the least expensive of my guy’s choices (beating Pitt and U Alabama by a grand or two - all were <10K when all was said and done). Technically, he could have had some free options, but we believe there’s a difference in caliber of those schools, so didn’t consider them.
We’re also self-employed (since '99) and one year had a very significant change in income due to a one time deal. We were then expected to be full pay (minus his merit aid). We couldn’t do that for him (or his brother who would be a freshman at another school). We contacted the school and were very nicely treated and told how to appeal. The appeal was approved. Had it not been my guy would have had to take a gap year. He was prepared to do this.
Why do they do it for some students and not others? I’ve no idea. My guy did end up making the U “proud” graduating Summa Cum Laude and being featured in a couple of things, but I don’t know how they figure that out ahead of time. We’re from a nearby state, so it isn’t “50 States” bragging rights.
My suggestion to students is to apply there - and elsewhere - and see what happens. Then pick what is best for the individual. One would think my lad was special “everywhere,” but not so. One school wanted us to pay 30+K more per year than all of his other choices - and they weren’t a fancy school TBH. You just never know when someone likes/dislikes you. Find schools you like, see what they offer, then pick one.