[quote=Nautigal]
But, seriously, this is what I am seriously considering (except for the Wal-Mart greeter part). I'm seriously considering retiring (early) just before my oldest starts college, and I'm saving like crazy (in retirement accounts) to try to reach that goal. I'd wait and see my situation then, but depending on the college, it may be that the income means test, which can act like an additional 47% "tax", makes working barely worth it. Of course places like Harvard are so cheap, even for modestly above average incomes, that I could afford it even if I did keep working.
You might seriously look at how financial aid is figured out before you attempt this. Other assets are included in how financial aid is calculated. The FAFSA doesn't look as closely into assets, but many private colleges require more detail that looks more closely into retirement accounts, real estate, etc. And you never know how the feds will change the rules over the years.
Why is no one talking about scholarships. Many private universities, but not the top tier, have very generous scholarships for top bright students. A few schools my daughter & I talked with would give top students (my daughter wasn't one) large merit scholarships AND admission to special honors programs. Just talked with a parent this morning who's daughters have gone this route.
