What are the best Colleges for Astrophysics?

[ChaseM]

I just finished my Junior year in high school in Houston. I am currently pursuing a degree in Astrophysics. I have been looking at Rice and Cal-tech as my best options, but in case I can't make it into those school I am considering Texas A&M, University of Texas for being in state. As well as Penn State and University of Colorado due to being rated as among the best for Astrophysics.

But are these school good options?
Are there any other schools I should consider applying to that would be better?
Are Ivy League/More select and expensive schools better then cheaper less select ones?

I am also in my class's top 4% with a weighted 5.2 GPA, and I have a 33 ACT that I plan on improving as well as a 1320 SAT that I definitely plan on improving.

Any information and opinions are helpful,
Thanks

 

[Vanadium 50]

Why do you want a degree in astrophysics?

 

[ChaseM]

Why do you want a degree in astrophysics?

I have always been very interested in the subject, and have a passion for physics and space. I also really want to work somewhere that will help humans get to space and in the solar system.

 

[DaveE]

The best undergraduate school is probably the one where you are happiest and will work the hardest, assuming they have a real physics curriculum. The quality of the education you will get at Caltech, UT, UCLA, etc. has more to do with you than it does with the school. They are all good enough for now. What makes a school "the best" in the perception of the public may not be what is best for you.
Also, almost everyone switches their major or subject of most interest as a undergraduate. Focus on the physical sciences for now, worry about the sub-specialty in a few years when you know more.

 

[PeroK]

Why do you want a degree in astrophysics?

Who doesn't?

 

[Vanadium 50]

I also really want to work somewhere that will help humans get to space and in the solar system.

That's aeronautical and astronautical engineering, not astrophysics.