<p>I was accepted into Boston University, and my financial aid package is basically ~20k/yr WITHOUT loans & with work study of $2000. The Boston U grant was 13.5k/yr. That means I basically have to pay ~40k/yr, which is really expensive.</p>
<p>I’m confused because my FAFSA EFC is a 00000, which is the lowest expected family contribution from what I’ve heard. Of course, I know CSS also plays a role and I have 2 other houses, but they’re pretty cheap and bought years ago. My dad is also unemployed, so $40k/yr seems pretty impossible to pay.</p>
<p>Has anyone appealed their financial aid package before, and can share some tips for me as to how the appeal process goes? </p>
<p>I scheduled an appointment to talk to Boston U’s financial aid counselor at the open house, but extra advice wouldn’t hurt. Thanks for any help!</p>
<p>P.S. If anyone is wondering, I submitted my CSS Profile and FAFSA before the deadline.</p>
<p>I would say that scheduling an appointment with a financial aide counselor is a good first step. When my son was accepted two years ago I contacted a counselor and spoke to him by telephone for almost 40 minutes. When I expressed concern about the level of his award, he gave me a lot of valuable advice about the appeal process. That conversation along with some research I did online was a big help. He recommended that we formally appeal, and write a detailed letter to BU explaining why we felt an increase in his award was warranted. He also stated to request a specific amount, and to not be vague. And to send in any supporting documentation to support our position. (Additional Medical expenses, etc.) In the end, we were successful. We received an increase in my sons BU Grant, although it was smaller than we had hoped, we were very appreciative of the added assistance & felt that it was time well spent. You could approach them at the open house, but I am wondering if calling them, might give you more one-on-one personalized attention, rather than competing with several individuals. I wish you the Best. Good Luck!</p>
<p>jdr gives some good advice. i would also add: when i applied to BU my freshman year, i was able to net an increase of a few thousand when i compared the aid packages i received from NYU and Carnegie Mellon. so that might be another option if you have better offers from comparable/more competitive institutions. i hope you get what you need</p>