Negotiating For More Financial Aid
and Appealing Your Award
When you receive your acceptance letter from a college along with the cost of attendance document and find that the financial aid package is not as substantial as anticipated, don’t fret! You have two viable options to potentially boost the amount of financial assistance you receive.
Appeal Process
1. Review Your Award Letter: Carefully review the details of your financial aid award letter, including the types and amounts of aid offered and any conditions or requirements associated with the aid.
2. Gather Documentation: Gather any relevant documentation to support your appeal, such as recent tax returns, pay stubs, medical bills, or letters explaining your financial situation. Be sure to provide clear and concise information demonstrating the need for additional aid.
3. Submit an Appeal Letter: Write a formal appeal letter to the financial aid office explaining your changed financial circumstances and requesting a re-evaluation of your aid package. Be honest, respectful, and specific in detailing why you need more financial aid.
4. Follow-Up: After submitting your appeal, follow up with the financial aid office to ensure they received your request and inquire about the timeline for a decision. Be prepared to provide additional information or documentation if requested.
5. Explore Alternative Options: If your appeal is denied or the additional aid offered is still insufficient, explore alternative options for financing your education, such as private scholarships, part-time employment, or low-interest student loans.
Negotiation Process
1. Research and Preparation: Familiarize yourself with the financial aid policies and procedures of the colleges you’re considering. Gather information about your financial need, academic achievements, and any extenuating circumstances warranting additional aid.
2. Initiate Communication: Reach out to the financial aid office of the college(s) you’re interested in attending to express your gratitude for the initial offer and inquire about the possibility of additional aid. Be polite and professional, and articulate your reasons for requesting more assistance.
3. Provide Supporting Documentation: Support your request with relevant documentation, such as recent tax returns, pay stubs, medical bills, or letters explaining your financial situation. Providing concrete evidence can strengthen your case and increase your chances of success.
4. Be Flexible and Open-Minded: Understand that budget constraints or other factors may limit the college’s ability to offer more aid. To supplement your financial aid package, consider alternative options, such as work-study programs, payment plans, or external scholarships.
5. Follow Up and Stay Persistent: Don’t be discouraged if your initial request for more aid is denied. Follow up with the financial aid office to inquire about next steps or additional options for appeal. Persistence and polite follow-up can sometimes yield positive results.