Choosing where to attend college can have major financial implications, and most of our families need to consider costs when making their final decision. Many students have now received financial aid offers from colleges that use the CSS Profile (aid packages from colleges that rely solely on the FAFSA may not be provided until the end of April or May). We thought we should share with you the general steps to appeal for more financial aid if your aid packages from these colleges do not leave you with affordable options:
The basic steps to appeal financial aid are as follows:
-if the college has an appeal process or form on the financial aid page of their website, follow those instructions. Otherwise, contact the financial aid office and find out who your specific counselor is
-contact that person directly via email. If no specific party is assigned, then just email the undergraduate financial aid office. You may also want to include the admissions office on the email to keep them in the loop.
-Express a little bit about why COLLEGE is a great choice for you, then let them know you can't afford COLLEGE at the current cost, and why
-include any relevant details they won't have already seen from your FAFSA or CSS profile; loss of income for 2023 or 2024, parent recent loss of job, new expenses, etc. Be prepared to include any supporting documentation (such as the family's 2023 1040, if requested)
-if you got a better offer from another institution, you can cite that...but be aware that some colleges, particularly those highly selective private colleges that only offer need -based aid, may not entertain appeal requests of that nature. That will often be stated on the college's website.
-remember, financial counselors are people, too. They don’t owe you anything. You are asking them to devote extra time and attention to your case. So, in all of your communications, make sure to be kind and respectful at all times.
Whether or not an appeal request will actually result in more aid will vary a great deal based upon the college in question, the individual applicant and their financial circumstances, etc. But, you do not have to fear any negative consequences of appealing an aid package; if you are in a difficult situation and need to appeal, you can certainly do so. It won't hurt to have made that request.
Do keep in mind that the CUNY system is often the most affordable option for many families. While the initial deadline of February 1 has passed, you may still apply to CUNY institutions if you need: https://www.cuny.edu/admissions/apply-to-cuny/
Remember to contact your assigned college counselor if you have any questions or need help.
