<p>i know that I am jumping on this one kinda late, but I would say that If your state school has a deferred enrollment option you might look at how that works in conjunction with a gap year, but make sure to use that gap year well (get a job/ internship/ volunteering?), then applying to Amherst for next year.</p>
<p>Another option is going to state school or RW, then applying to Amherst transfer. That way your D does not give up a year. She might even like Roger Williams after a semester or two.</p>
<p>I am surprised that If Amherst is a fit you would not have found it before. It is ranked #2 on USNWR. Pretty well known.</p>