<p>OP, take a look at Santa Clara University and University of San Diego to see if there’s any merit money possibilities. The UCs are going to be out of your financial range, so the UCLA/USC debate is moot. Keep an eye on the deadline for USC merit aid; I believe it might be earlier (November, possibly). </p>
<p>I know several seniors who got money this past admissions cycle from University of the Pacific and University of Redlands. </p>
<p>Pomona is a fantastic school, but they offer no merit aid. They do meet full need, but it’s a tough admit.</p>