Financial Aid Appeals

We are often asked if students can appeal a financial aid package, and the answer is yes, of course.  But before you do, there are a few things you should know.

First, you will most likely need to provide some sort of documentation that validates your request.  For example, perhaps you have new medical bills or there has been a loss of employment.  What colleges do not respond to is a request for more money simply because, well, simply because you want it.  It helps if you can provide some information about "financial fit," and it can be helpful to have a specific amount of additional need in mind.  Some schools might ask for your award letters from other institutions, but others don't care what you received from other schools.

Do talk about why you want to attend this particular college or university; explain why you're a good fit for this school and what your contributions to the community will be.  In other words, build your case! Yes, it's kind of like admissions all over again, but you are asking for more money, and they want to know that there's a benefit for the school if they choose to give it to you.

I'm including below two good articles to read about financial aid appeals, but remember that all colleges do not approach financial aid in the same way.  Ultimately you have to decide what you are willing to spend.

http://nyti.ms/1mXWCCU

http://bit.ly/Q9IyZ7