<p>I always send kids asking this to Momfromtexas 's old thread on Free Ride scholarships. Though outdated in many ways, her methods and places to search still are good advice. By focusing on lesser known schools, the chances go up to get money. Your test scores are such, that the possibilities are there.</p>
<p>For all students, finding a few sure things is important, because regardless of test scores and grades, it really is all a lottery, especially when money is involved. So look at what communtiy college and other local state colleges are available. Also local private schools that are not that well known often give nice commuter awards to good students and those with high test scores. A number of kids here are commuting to a catholic school in the area that is very generous in merit scholarships for kids with your stats. Look at bunch of catholic colleges, by the way and see what the pickings are there. I know kids that got close to a full ride at Scrantion, Iona, Sienna and the like with numbers not as high as yours.</p>
<p>That your parents will be having you at home is like a $10K award right there. You live rent free, something that you won’t likely be doing most of your adult life, get meals, and maybe rides, use of the car, use of the amenities, some small change, etc. Those cost a lot and are expenses that going to sleep away college are necessities. You can look for some part time work now for school holidays, weekends and the summer and put a nice piece of change away for you to use. You also will be permitted to take out $5500 in Stafford loans if you parent complete the FAFSA and those will be in your name, and that will give you some breathing room. </p>
<p>That your parents are being upfront about this is a good thing. Too many bluff and fool themselves until the time comes to pay the piper and then they have to admit the cupboard is bare. Not as many options available at that late date. You know the realities up front and can start gathering information for low cost affordable options. Let your counselor know and get some ideas as to where other kids have gotten nice awards, local and otherwise, and keep your ears wide open for ideas too.</p>