The problem with this is the application cost. An extra $75 isn't pennies to many people. Yes, there is financial aid (sometimes) available, but the process is

The problem with this is the application cost. An extra $75 isn't pennies to many people. Yes, there is financial aid (sometimes) available, but the process is often so convoluted and/or with so strict requirements that it isn't useful. As an example, MIT says "Here are some examples on which we take a dim view: I am applying to 25 schools and I can't afford MIT's application fee". Additionally, there are often issues with financial aid cutoffs. I know I myself decided against applying to [not mentioning name] because my parents' total earnings brought their income just over a cutoff. It would have actually have been (a lot) better had my parents earned less that year. When people compare "slight possibility of going to a top collage" versus "being able to eat better", well... I know which one I would choose.