<p>Most private colleges and universities that I’m aware of have application deadlines of January 1 or thereabouts. As long as you lay out the financial options clearly, I don’t see why she can’t apply to some private colleges and universities over the next 6 weeks and then see what happens, both in terms of admissions and financial aid. </p>
<p>If it would not be feasible for her to attend a private college or university without substantial merit aid, make sure she understands that before choosing schools to apply to.</p>