<p>I'd recommend applying to schools that meet 100% of need and also to schools that you know you can get merit scholarships and will be accepted. You need the back up of a school that both will accept you and you will be able to afford. Then if you get in to one of the top schools that will meet your financial need, you'd be able to go there, but if you didn't, you wouldn't be left without a college next year.</p>