We did have some limitations for S20. East of the Mississippi and either within an 6 hour drive of home or direct flight close to campus. Still left plenty of options.
When Covid hit we changed restriction to 12 hour drive or less from home. Parents choice. It took one school off his list (SMU). He had a very nice offer from their business school. He didn’t complain. He understood. Sometimes life isn’t fair.
I wouldn’t worry too much about the religious aspect. We’re Catholic and he applied to several Jesuit schools. They’re the liberal Catholics. We liked them all and there was no pressure.
Budget was what our in-state flagships cost. About $35K/year for Pennsylvania. All 3 are good for his major. We would go higher for something better but not a lot. He’s at Georgia Tech right now. He carried 51 credits so he probably can graduate in 3 years.