Hi again! I’m afraid my experience will make the thread feel negative, but it might help you to know. Be aware that many schools calculate your need based on a proprietary formula. We didn’t get truly met at any of the four expensive meets-need schools my kid got into.
I’ve written a lot about both merit and need, so I won’t rehash. I recommend you have a few affordable schools on your list, and those that take FAFSA only.