We wind up choosing the flagship state school in-state. Lots of kids get “merit” scholarships at second tier private schools, or at other states’ flagship state schools, that offer a rate similar to what the in-state flagship would cost. We don’t have our kids apply to schools that are a long shot, and that won’t offer them merit aid. And yes, we are angry that many students with lesser qualifications than our kids, get full free rides at the top schools.