Fair point. Unfortunately, in the US, the two are heavily linked.

Not always. I have several friends whose parents were able to pay for their college. Not well known colleges, but still, that has been a massive advantage for them.

Sure. I had a full ride scholarship. Some friends had family cover theirs. Some can manage to work and put themselves though college. But a great many people don't have those options or can't manage them. My kids will have to work their way through college. My eldest has already started such. Hopefully, she will avoid massive debt if she can follow some advice, start with a JC, and continue working while she progresses though her schooling.