Pitt’s merit started at 1480 for SAT this year and they’re moving more towards need. We were looking for similar for our S20 this year as a donut hole. Most merit starts at 1500 SAT/34 ACT. It’s tough to get below $40k/year. That’s why most kids go to their in-state schools. Top 20 schools like CMU don’t give merit.
We ended up taking one school off the table after Covid hit. Too far. Great opportunity but not sure about fit. We pretty much did same rule. Direct flight within 2 hours or within 12 hour drive. Not unreasonable.