<p>If you’re in NJ, have you considered SUNY schools? They are amongst the most affordable publics for out-of-state students. I believe oos costs are barely over $23k (this is using small-sized SUNY New Paltz as an example, other schools go higher). You don’t mention a cost - so I don’t know if this fits in your budget. Within the SUNY schools there are some that are on the smaller side and still considered competitive and are on the rise.</p>
<p>Also, be mindful that the financial aid packages that your daughter receives her freshman year will not be what you get for the next 3 years. You will have one overlap year where your EFC will be divided amongst your 2 children - so this will effect FA offers with the schools seing that you can contribute much less that one year. If she receives merit scholarships those will stay with her; if gaps are filled with grant money that will decrease or disappear the next year as your EFC will go back to ‘normal’ the next year.</p>