I think even attending a state school within the particular demographic you mentioned (individuals with minimal savings, not from a wealthy background, no job etc.) is tough. I was accepted to the Univ. of Maryland with a RA scholarship (8k) and while it is not an Ivy league school it is still pretty expensive given that I will have to pay out of state tuition. I just cant afford it when you add in moving and living expenses. I have also been accepted to two California State Universities and while tuition is around 15k for two years (which is pretty amazing) - it will still be tough for me given that I will be a full time student (no job) and not living somewhere where I don't have to pay rent. So, I will need to take out loans for both tuition and living expenses . For me to survive in Los Angeles and pay my bills (car, undergrad loan, etc.), and rent i- I will need to borrow around 1,800-2k. That's at most 48k in loans for two years not to mention tuition and undergrad debt! My other options is to interview for the CalSWEC stipend (which I will do later on in the month) and have it be offered to me, cut down on expenses as much as I can, and/or work during the weekend. I have already emailed the chairs of both CSU depts. to see if any RA scholarships are available for students, both replied that none are given as of now but there could be an opportunity to assist faculty down the line. I'm just wondering how people will financially support themselves if they are in the same boat as me. I know I will make it work but It would be so nice to have a philanthropic long lost fairy abuelita..