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If one of your first choice schools did not award you enough money, it's worth a shot to appeal your offer. You have nothing to lose - a college will not rescind your acceptance because you want to appeal. In fact, when other admitted students decide to enroll elsewhere, award money earmarked for them becomes available.
Before you commit to enrolling, contact the financial aid office. Here are good points to keep in mind:
- Follow the school's rules! Some colleges have specific procedures to request additional funds. These will require your diligent attention and your painstaking follow-through.
- When you make the call (and we do recommend phone over email) explain that you have been accepted and received an offer of financial aid. Let the officer know that you want to enroll but are concerned about either unmet need or excessive loan debt.
- Be friendly, polite and sincere. Don't use words like "bargain" or "negotiate." Also, don't forget to make your requests before the deadline written on your award letter!
- Most schools won't alter the expected family contribution unless there was a change in circumstance (such as the loss of a job, divorce or death). Colleges will be more willing to modify your award to cover any "unmet need." Another alternative is changing a portion of your loans from unsubsidized to subsidized.
Appealing your award is NOT sure thing. Colleges will have varying responses, dependent upon your reasoning and their ability to adjust the circumstances. Many times they aren't able to offer any changes, but the only way you will know is if you ask.
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