Diffrent thought--you know the EFC, right?

EFC is based on parents' asset and income, plus Kid's. Generally by the time kids go to college, their contribution is almost nothing, if not nothing. I think since it is based on parents' ability, parents should pay to the EFC amount.

by setting UC as the standard, however, you limit your kids' dream. Let's see she/he work hard and target a better school, are you willing to tell her/him that: "no, your dream should end at UC because I am only willing to pay the amount." It is not simply hurting, you give your kids a reason that they don;t have to work hard since UC is relatively easy to get in.

I believe EFC is a better way to go. If kids choose to go private, the cost is higher, and the EFC is a little bit higher bacause it counts parent's primary residence equity. However, it is still fair enough since only 6% the equity is counted. if they stay in a state university, fine, the EFC is still there for them. The most important is that the cost above EFC is generally covered by a school, either by grant, work/study or loan. If it is loan, it will be lower interest loan.