<p>I’m interested in going to AU (current junior) and I’m considering even going ED. I really like their polysci program and I’m pretty sure I’d get in, but the financial aspect worries me. Out of state and the $30k+ fees per year is pretty steep. What kind of merit-based aid do they offer? I’ve tried to search online but it’s not very specific, or maybe I’m not searching for the right things. I’m fine taking need-based financial aid (loans), but $30k/yr in loans is not something I want to do.</p>
<p>Thanks for any help.</p>
<p>First off, AU is not public school, so out of state doesn’t matter. Second, full tuition and room and board is close to $50,000, not $30,000.</p>
<p>You are right, their polisci program is excellent. They do offer merit based scholarships- here is the web page that talks about the different scholarships.</p>
<p>[AU</a> Freshman Merit Scholarships | Financial Aid | American University, Washington, DC](<a href=“http://www.american.edu/financialaid/freshmanscholarships.cfm]AU”>Freshman Scholarships and Merit Awards | American University, Washington, DC)</p>
<p>From what I understand, you can get more than one of these and can range up to full tuition- in fact, at least one kid I know of has what is a full ride of tuition and room and board. These scholarships go to the most highly qualified students, those who are admitted to the honors program and who American really wants to boost their admission stats. I think they may decide on the amount based on how much they want you.</p>
<p>Generally, the rule of thumb for any merit based scholarship at any school (not just American) is that your stats need to be in the top 25% of their admitted students. Some schools have a more stringent policy than that, some schools are less stringent but its a good rule of thumb.</p>