<p>As a California resident, you did apply to UCs and CSUs, right? Their in-state financial aid is generally good, and CS is good at many of them. Note that you are considered an independent student due to being a veteran, so you do not need any parental information for financial aid. GI Bill benefits should also help you, so look up what you are eligible for.</p>
<p>Note also that many state universities in various states have good and highly regarded CS majors, but may be more transfer-friendly than the super-selective private schools. If they are affordable (based on your veterans’ benefits), then you may want to add those to your application list. A 4.0 college GPA makes you eligible (from a GPA standpoint) for any school that admits transfers, but some of the most selective schools admit very few (or no) transfers.</p>
<p>Is your backup option to finish your degree at UMass (which has a well regarded CS major)? If so, be sure to check that it is affordable with your veteran’s benefits.</p>