Well…there are several things going on.
- You probably will need your son's SAT score, since, if you're chasing merit, that's one of the factors schools look at.
- Then, you might want to consider type of school...Big? Medium? Small? Public? Private. Once you narrow that down, you will have clearer options. Schools with math and CS.
- Lots of schools have net price calculators. But keep in mind, the fact that you have another son in college will factor in what you can afford (FAFSA and CSS)
- Also, what will happen if you husband finds a job? I think the FAFSA you will file next year Fall 2020 for financial aid will be based on 2019 income tax form. You may also need to state when he lost his job. When your son re-applies for financial aid his freshman year of college for his sophomore year, they will go on your 2020 income. As you know, your need-based aid package will fluctuate based on your financial situation. A heavy and generous need based package might be less attractive if you get a high paying job. I'm guessing that's why you are looking at merit as well, which carries over all four years.
- Is it likely your husband's income will be restored to the same level? If you can run the net price calculators with his old income and your situation now what would your net price look like in both scenarios?