Could I get a full ride anywhere?

tk21769
Sat, 11 Jul 2009 19:49:12 +0000

OTF, don’t lose heart. All the factors you describe would play into a financial aid decision. Yes, if you work at the application process, you may have a reasonable shot at both need-based and merit aid from a good midwestern liberal arts college. But as hmom5 suggests, the need-based aid calculation can get dicey in a divorce situation. This is a difficult time for you, so try to keep a cool head and good communications with your Dad, if possible.

SmallCollegesFTW is right, too, some of these schools have become more competitive than they were a few years ago. So you do need to be sure to have at least one good financial and academic safety (such as your state university).

That said, one of my kids was accepted to both Colorado College and Macalester this past year, with merit scholarships. His M+CR total was higher than yours but his W was lower (and his cumulative was lower). His unweighted GPA was a little lower than yours (though he was in a full IB program). So on balance I think your stats are comparable. The essays, letters, etc., will be important. Stay positive but realistic.

There are a bunch of other good LACs throughout the midwest that you should check out, but definitely apply to Colorado College if it appeals to you. The non-binding EA option is great because you could get an answer from them as early as late December. A decision on merit aid would come then if you are accepted. You would not know about need-based aid until later.