Thanks for the continued input.
@Von…thanks…I think he’ll apply to some in-state & then we’ll throw in several OOS/private to see how things stack up. I’m sure some offers may contain loans, which ds can then decide to reject (or not).
@amsun / @mtnsun - I mistakenly listed a SAT - it was the PSAT ds took & got a 1400. However, he rec’d a 34 on his ACT & we were/are planning on reporting that & not the PSAT. Is there a reason he should take the SAT as well, given that he has an ACT of 34? (I’m not being defensive here…truly am wondering if there is an advantage to having him do so.)
@chm - I appreciate hearing that you have had similar, validating experiences. I realize that it’s worthwhile to apply to several schools, including some that may not make the financial mark…however, I also have to weigh how much effort to put into finding those & for my son to put into applications. It’s quite the process!
@holy - yea, we actually are going to go visit CW. I do appreciate hearing that about the SUNY schools, as hubby & I really like upstate NY & that would give us a chance to spend more time there! 
One question…how do I find/check the Common Data Set for each school - is that on the school’s web site? Or is that contained in some other place? (Yes, I’m a newbie!)
@momof. Hm, I wasn’t even aware of the U of Akron. They do sound like a good safety, so we’ll check into that. I also appreciate the mention of RPI, as that is one school we were eyeballing and contemplating if we wanted to wade in further. We’ll check into it more. And I’ve also heard that Purdue is limited with OOS merit aid, so not sure if we’ll go that route or not.