You have to fill out the FAFSA. So just fill it out with things as they are, don't get creative. State schools, not necessarily in your own state, are a good choice for saving money over private colleges. Depending what state you are in, a lot of times nearby states have a reciprical deal that reduces the price for residents. Just my opinion, but I let my daughter know what colleges I was willing to pay for before she set about choosing.
