Specifically, I want to major in aerospace engineering with a focus on working at NASA in the future
But now I’m trying to decide what colleges to apply to and my only requirement is I really must go to a college in state since I have my full tuition paid to any public state university due being a former foster child (please correct me if I’m wrong I can’t find much info on this law?)
My scores are good, but not ivy material, so not much other reason for me to really go out of state right?
I was rank 22/516 at the end of last year. I expect this to fall slightly since junior classes are way harder and I got a couple of bs this semester and my school weighs their ap/ib higher than dc but I can still probably make auto-admit to UT and whatever else offers it I hope.
Right now I’m only seriously considering UT, but I’m unsure if A&M has a good engineering program or if I will have to pay tuition at Rice since it’s private and I need help to decide on some good safety schools. Thanks
Here is info on the tuition exemptions. I have not read it in depth, but it did not seem to cover room and board (meal plans and housing) but only tuition and fees. Housing can cost more than tuition at some universities so you need to plan smart. http://www.collegeforalltexans.com/apps/financialaid/tofa2.cfm?ID=429
You qualify for auto admission to any Texas public school with your class rank. UT and A&M are the most competitive and with UT, you must have a 620 math SAT to even be considered. Competitive applicants have over 700 math score. A&M is also competitive to get into and difficult to stay in if you are not a strong math student. One of the engineering academies could also be an admissions option A&M could offer you or their engineering at Galveston option, where you take first year engineering classes there and then attend College Station campus after that. Also,at A&M, you are not directly admitted to the major so you may want to have more of a safety school, such as UT Arlington, where you can be directly admitted to the major and can be less expensive.
The Tuition Exemption does not allow for any private school.
UT and TAMU are going to be your best bets for in-state.
Don’t assume an auto admit to UT. You will be admitted to the school, but admission to engineering major is done holistically and is quite competitive.
You still must be admitted to your specific major. We know a kid well within the top 7% last year who was denied admission to aerospace engineering at UT due to pretty average test scores for engineering (ACT 30 if I remember correctly). You need to submit stellar test scores. Make SURE you are taking AP Physics and AP Calc BC for sure senior year or before.
You should also heavily consider University of Alabama-Huntsville if you meet their merit criteria. Huge aerospace hub, great merit scholarships and those kids have some fantastic opportunities due to the aerospace corporations in the area.
Don’t forget Georgia Tech, which charges relatively low OS tuition and has an outstanding AE program. My son’s a senior ME there and says the AE grads are in high demand.