<p>Can anyone offer assistance as to how I can best negotiate my very limited aid from Pitzer college? The track coach was the one who first informed me of my admittance and I receievd the packet today- but as a division 3 school that is the extent of the help he can offer me haha no money- what to do?!</p>
<p>"Negotiate" is not in Webster's Collegiate Dictionary; appeal is. Congradulations on your acceptance to a fine college. Pitzer, however, like many competive colleges determine need based aid on a formula that is income driven. Private colleges have differing IM methods to determine need. I am guessing that the track coach was over zealous in getting you to apply to Pitzer and implied that there would be money for you. </p>
<p>Too many bright scholar athletes are enticed to apply to DIV II and III schools thinking that the coach will have some influence on the FA and admissions offices. Sometimes they do, but most of the time do not. </p>
<p>In any case, call the coach first and ask him for a suggested strategy.
You will then call the FA office ask about the process for "appeal". For all I know, you may have recieved a good package based on your parent's financial profile. If they think that they can help, you will have to write a letter. Be sincere and if you have one or two other colleges acceptances, all the better. If those other schools did not give you more money do not mention that detail in your appeal. Just that you are considering other acceptances, but if Pitzer could help by allowing you to compete for more grant aid, that would be much appreciated. Good luck!</p>