In addition to the schools already mentioned that have big merit for NMF… for reaches, you might also look at both USC and Northeastern.
- USC has automatic half-tuition merit for admitted NMF. Great weather and great music opportunities including marching band. The math department has both theoretical and applied/computational tracks.
- Northeastern has auto-merit for NMF also, and it used to be around half tuition; I’m not sure of the current amount. The math department offers a wide range of combined majors that might interest him Mathematics < Northeastern University Academic Catalog , and co-ops could be a great way of figuring out what kind of work setting he would like. Lots of music ensembles, including a non-marching pep band that plays at hockey games (this being their biggest spectator sport) as well as basketball and volleyball.
Texas isn’t part of any tuition reciprocity networks with other states, but U of Utah can be an attractive option, because they have a path to residency after the first year, bringing the cost way down for years 2-4. (Merit money is possible too.) The Honors College has great housing and robust programming, and music opportunities are top-notch. The math department is strong and has a range of interesting degree options, and strong undergrad research opportunities. The setting has a great balance of access to a major city, and nearby outdoor recreation. I don’t know if there would be a case for choosing Utah over UTD, with its amazing NMF package and a great honors college as well, but it could be worth a look.
If he’d like more focus on math and fewer distribution requirements, he could look at Canadian U’s - there are top-notch math programs at a number of them. Budget could become difficult if our incoming administration mucks up the exchange rate, but it’s a thought.