All large American firms (like the ones you mentioned) require a 25k minimum to avoid that PDT rule. What you could do is open multiple accounts from one broker under your name, so you can have more trades available per rolling week. I would recommend Schwab at 8.95 per trade or TD Ameritrade if you don't mind the flat 9.95 trade fee. Both boast totally free, wholly comprehensive, professional software (desktop downloads, too) that you can use to chart and research. TD Ameritrade's thinkorswim platform is highly regarded by almost all traders.

And I'm pretty sure that TD Ameritrades minimum balance is $500... so even a kid with some Christmas money can start trading.

On a side note, does Interactive Brokers charge per share? I don't think I could ever do that. Too much for larger orders.

Hope I helped...