For the OP, I just want to commend you on a great thread. I wish more students had the same attitude. Many students I encounter somehow think magically money will appear and then I get the call from them in April that they have no affordable option for college. Both of my children knew we did not qualify for aid for certain schools like the ivies so they did not bother to apply there, why be disappointed. They did a lot of research and found a list similar to yours, and were/are very happy students at their colleges. Good luck to you in the rest of your journey.