I agree that the avenue is a non-income based, solely academic scholarship. There are plenty that schools that offer this for top students and don't consider income (FAFSA) or race. But it pretty much has to be a state school, not a private one. But admissions to some of those out-of-state schools may (depending on state and current laws) have some diversity metrics. But, correct that there is probably no way you can get need-based aid on a middle or upper class income.

We've told our kids we can help with in-state tuition levels (so if you get an out-of-state waiver) or BYU since we put some inheritance money into 529s for the kids. Community college is an option to start, or in-state and then focus on grad school anywhere for a marketable degree.