<p>I'm looking for a match LAC. I want to major in Philosophy, and I'd like an LAC that's in a rural, or suburban setting, that's out of the south. However, exceptions can be made if the college has good financial aid. My family makes around $95,000 a year; but we're supporting 2 households (one parent works out of state), hurt by the economy, and can only afford to pay ~$8000.</p>
<p>(Junior, haven't taken SAT yet, nor done AP tests this year)
My stats:
ACT: 31
AP Computer Science AB Test: 4
In Gifted & Talented (If this counts for anything)
National Honor Society (Same as above)</p>
<p>EC's:
2 Years JV Cross Country
2 Year Varsity Cross Country
1 Year Varsity Captain
Vice-President of schools Gay-Straight Alliance
Member of Philosophy Club, Latin Club</p>
<p>Everyone's been hurt by the economy, and even if you get a break for the two households, I predict ~20k EFC. You'll need merit aid--major merit aid, essentially full tuition--to get cost down to 8k. Use that as a starting point for research.</p>
<p>Check out Grinnell. They are one of the very few top LACs that gives out merit aid-and they are generous with it. Grinnell has a lot going for it and this is just one more reason to love them.</p>
<p>Visit the school if you can and have a chat with the financial aid office. If you explain your situation to them along with your GPA and test scores, they are likely to be quite up front with you. The admissions officer who interviewed my son was quite clear about what was required to be considered. (And we were thrilled with the school's generosity since we didn't qualify for financial aid.)</p>
<p>Agree with Grinnell but doubt will qualify for merit aid. Given your specifics and income level you should qualify for pretty generous financial aid, however.</p>
<p>Look to schools that will meet 100% of demonstrated need. Even here, there will be some variation in ultimate awards (always somewhat unpredictable). Only way to know is to apply.</p>
<p>In the midwest, would add Carleton and Kenyon to the mix. </p>
<p>In the Northeast, Bates, Haverford, Swarthmore, Wesleyan. Possibly Amherst, Bowdoin, Williams as well.</p>
<p>I think merit is the way to go. Run the calculators and see what your EFC is. If it's far above $8K, you know you'll have to find a merit school. There's a thread pinned on the top of the Financial Aid forum "Best schools that give the most merit aid." Check there.</p>
<p>If you are interested in continuing with cross country or track, I would check out Willamette. Very strong programs and philosophy dept. isn't too shabby either. Also you should qualify for both merit and need based aid.</p>