@twoinanddone - “won’t be staying” was in reference to post college, no desire to stay in Texas, will get education and then move on - I apologize if that was a bit fuzzy.
I am well aware that out of state comes with its own costs - we know schooling in these regions is really not within her budget (generally) and are looking instate as well as just about anywhere - I was seeking suggestions on schools to look at based on others knowledge since I cannot possibly know every option out there, however, the masses here on this board have a ton of knowledge and I am making a list, looking at NPC’s, aide, scholarship options etc.
Thank you
The religious affiliation of the schools is something to consider, I don’t think the religious emphasis is overbearing at SMU (Methodist) TCU (Disciples of Christ) and Trinity (Presbyterian). When my daughter toured SMU, the guide joked it was Somewhat Methodist University. Rhodes College in Tennessee also gives good merit aid. It is affiliated with the Presbyterian church.
If you care about religious affiliation, dig into requirements. Schools with religious connections range from those that have actual requirement in Bible to those that have more general requirements that can be fulfilled with philosophy or other religion type courses. But don’t dismiss them out of hand. Lots of private colleges were founded religious organizations (including Ivy League schools) although many have moved away from oversight from the groups that founded them.
I would recommend that your dd research the teaching licensing laws in the various states where she think she might want to live and find out about reciprocity agreements/additional requirements to get licensed vs. the state where she might attend school. Typically, teachers are licensed in a state and she might face additional steps in order to get licensed in another state. It is just something she might want to be aware of upfront. I did a quick google and found this. I didn’t read it, though. http://education.cu-portland.edu/blog/teaching-careers/teaching-license-reciprocity-explained/
Terminology will also help you in your research. Full-ride means that tuition, room, and board are covered. Full tuition covers the cost of tuition. Bama does not offer a straight full-ride for a 34. They offer full tuition. This site sells a download with hundreds of university based scholarships. It is clunky and hard to manipulate, but it is organized by state and is a solid starting point. http://www.mykidscollegechoice.com/full-scholarship-list/
FWIW, my 2 current college students are attending full-ride and very close to full-ride. It is possible, but I spent hours researching options and helping them decide where they were competitive for the more competitive scholarships. Our budget is very similar to yours, and as a heads up, even full-tuition will not get you down that low at many schools. For example, our dd received a full-tuition scholarship from Fordham, but that still left us facing close to $20,000/yr. It may take full-tuition+ (similar to UAH) to get you within your budget.