| Regarding the Ivys, I know of at least two non-need scholarships Cornell gives out. First, any community college transfer student coming in with Phi Theta Kappa academic honors automatically gets a renewable $5,000 merit scholarship. (For those unfamiliar, it is awarded by the institution itself, not Phi Theta Kappa.) Students in ROTC who meet certain academic requirements get merit assistance, as well.
Now, the school I really wanted to mention is Wells. Wells is one of those rare schools that's exceptionally strong academically, yet has a very high admit rate due to it being lesser-known than its peers and frequently being used as a safety. Because they're doing a lot to bring in new students (a plan that's working, by the way), they've cut tuition plus room and board down to around $25,000, grant about 80% of students aid (including lots of merit), meet over 90% of need, and give an average aid package around $17,000. The joke is that all you need is a pulse to get a huge loan-free package there; your family situation is almost meaningless.
Again, however, it's an amazing school, so it's absolutely one of the best deals available. Next year is their first going co-ed, so consider it if you're looking for a fine education at a bargain price. |