The Agony of the Middle Class--Merit Aid HELP?!

Paying for College
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<p>I'm a rising high school senior. I believe I did well in high school (my act is 32 to give you an idea of testing range), and I am actively looking for a challenging college where I can study English. My dream school is University of Chicago. I love the urban location, the small class sizes, and the mid range size of the student body. </p>

<p>BUT the price tag is a problem. My parents have been clear that they will likely contribute about the price of U of I. My family makes a comfortable amount, but the economic downturn has hit us hard. I am likely to get no need based scholarships. In addition, my father passed away this year which was hurt my college plans considerably. </p>

<p>Can anyone suggest some good, hopefully mid-sized schools where I am likely to get merit aid? I live in the Midwest, but I am willing to go almost anywhere. I am DESPERATE! Please give me any suggestions you can think of! It would be greatly appreciated!</p>

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<p>Look through this. It is the sticky at the top of this forum:
<a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/financial-aid-scholarships/63770-best-schools-give-most-merit-based-aid.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/financial-aid-scholarships/63770-best-schools-give-most-merit-based-aid.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

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<p>^ Bradley has an on-site merit calculator to see exactly where you are at. Not U of Chicago but has a good rep. nonetheless. Also St. Louis University. We’re in a similar boat, would love Chicago, but can’t realistically see paying full costs.</p>

<p>I’m sorry about your father :(</p>