I also agree to check out some of the ‘hidden gem’ schools out there. The price tag on a lot of the top schools can be shocking, even after scholarships. Once you get into a program, the financial journey begins, with scholarships, loans, ect. Some of the lesser known programs offer enticing packages to get kids there (the University of Memphis has a few “full ride” scholarships). Also, don’t discount the value of grades/test scores. Stacking scholarships (academic + artistic) will make some of the higher priced schools actually feasible.