<p>believe it or not despite the fact that Carnegie Mellon is 50k a year, they actually give out full rides pretty often. I know about 3 kids in the school of drama with full rides.</p>
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<p>It sounds like this may work out fine for your D, but for kids who really value a more selective academic college environment it might be very limiting. </p>
<p>Even according to CollegeBoard, which shows stats from 2 years ago when FAR fewer kids were applying to schools like Northwestern and Yale, 75% of the students had ACT scores over 31 and 25% have scores over 34. The lower 25% typically have an extraordinary nationally-recognized talent (athletic, artistic, etc.). Such schools don’t offer Merit aid, because virtually EVERY admitted student would deserve it.</p>
<p>So, as has been said, for a middle class family (like ours) to stay in your desired price range you may need to rule out most academically-selective MT programs.</p>
<p>I would look into Syracuse University. They offer merit aid for both talent and academics. Plus they have some full ride (or close) scholarships with special opportunities that she may qualify for.</p>
<p>Like many people have said the ivies are out. Keep in mind that “good” merit aid in general is in the $10K - $20K range. Very few schools will offer above this unless you win a very select scholarship that covers most of room and board.</p>
<p>I would say that most private schools will cost about $40,000 to $60,000 per year .</p>
<p>Unless your D nails an almost full ride, it is doubtful you will be able to pay only $8 to $10K/ year for a private school.</p>
<p>Also check on the availability of any merit scholarship directly with each school. People will tell you about “scholarship” money that kids have received, but in reality it is as a result of financial need and would not be available to a student without need.</p>