Perhaps a little off topic (forgive me if I stray from the T20 discussion a bit) but I just wanted to speak to the Music Performance Chance Me posts.
I feel that these are best served by recommending that the poster move to the Music Major Forum for advice as the process, merit awards and acceptances are very unique to this major. Amazing wealth of knowledge on the Music forum.
For those unfamiliar, it may seem like an applicant is picking somewhat random schools, other than Juilliard which is familiar to everyone. But there are highly sought teachers for specific instruments in certain schools. And programs better known to support (with merit money) undergrad vs grad, or classical vs jazz, or instrumental vs voice. And so on.
While there are so many more variables with a music application and admission chance, some guidance can be given from a music perspective. And rather like an athlete, in many cases while academics need to clear a benchmark, it is not what will get them accepted (or denied) Acceptance will come down to how the applicant performs at their audition relative to others auditioning on the same instrument. As will merit awards.
And just my own perspective in knowing many prospective music majors and musicians of all ages. It is ok for people to give feedback that “music doesn’t make a lot of money so don’t go into debt.” But just know that serious music kids know that very well. Sometimes I feel that posters belabor that point. Know that the students have had mentors and teachers and family giving this advice. It is why music applicants/families are seeking merit money. Because it is not a safety if the cost is untenable.