But guys, figure this- a student really wants to get into university X; the university too really wants the student to attend. BUT the student can't afford the cost at all. Should just this prevent that student from attending that college? If the university can offer a little need-based help, what should be so wrong in asking for it? And people who label such a person with "the one with extra funds.." shouldn't really do that as it makes the student feel more miserable about his/her financial condition. There's a pressure to out-perform everyone as it is, since the student is offered extra help believing that he'd be great..