Schools With Great Financial Aid Packages?

I think with M/CR at 1310 and total score of 2000 you should try the ACT. You need to be realistic about your chances at top schools, in that there is very little chance, until you get above 2100 or 31-32 and even then that is not top 20 LAC or IVY. With that score in Boston you could look at maybe Simmons (they will not include your bio Dad’s income), I believe Clark University in Worcester is FAFSA only as well, or one of the MA state schools, though I’m not sure how much aid they give to non-state apps. Another school we looked at was UScranton and they have a very good science department. All good schools but more in range with your present scores.

Tried the ACT and didn’t do too well. Once I get my detailed SAT score report back, I’m going to see what exactly I need to work on, specifically in the reading section. With your advice, I will work on my scores and take the SAT again in October.

Also, quick question- if I decide to apply EA (usually due Nov 1) to a school and I take the SAT in October, is that a problem? After I get my scores should I just send them to the school?

Thank you guys! :slight_smile:

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my dad is the cheapest person on Earth…honestly, I’m not sure how much he is willing to pay, but he wants me to go whatever school is gonna pay for me to go
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Does that mean a big saver?

Before you create a list that will likely include schools that won’t give you a dime of aid if your dad won’t provide his income and assets info, and he won’t contribute an adequate amount towards your college costs, you need to talk to him.

If he will provide info BUT WON’T pay, then that school won’t be affordable because your mom can’t pay “dad’s share.”

You need to talk to your dad soon

OP ^ really is true. In order to form your strategy you need to have an idea what the numbers are. If your parents’ combined income is “too high” you would be better off looking at less expensive programs (Sybbie and Bob gave you one) and/or merit money where your stats would put you in the top of the applicant pool.

If you are considered low income you might try private schools which claim to meet demonstrated need. But be sure to run net price calculators bc you will be shocked at how “need” gets defined! It would be prudent to use the most accurate numbers you can get for this. Can you ask for a copy of each of your parents’ most recent tax returns?