<p>I was accepted to Barnard for the class of 2017, and offered the estimated aid that my family expected. However, when we re-submit our finances this spring (for the actual aid package), the grant money will decrease with a bump in my dad’s salary; again, however, all of that “bump” has already gone to fixing a big problem with our house. Moreover, my parents are under the impression that earning outside scholarships (much needed to cover the already $5k+ difference between what we CAN pay and what we are told we must pay) will only further take from my grant money. They also think that getting a job would help, that I wouldn’t need to “report” anything I earn under $10k. Keep in mind that all this is in addition to the $10k I would take out in a loan for the first year alone (beside the Stafford loan in my fin aid package, as well!).</p>
<p>We’ve been working with a financial aid administrator from the school, but have come up with these additional questions over the winter break. </p>
<p>Does anyone have any ideas or solutions? I’v’e searched through the pre-existing Barnard fin aid threads and have found no questions similar.</p>
<p>In other words, outside scholarships are NOT going to reduce the grant you receive, unless your outside scholarships exceed the amount they expect you to need in loans and work. That is also the way it worked when our daughter was there, and I looked up the current info to be sure it’s the same…</p>
<p>I am afraid you are most likely out of luck, though, with regards to your dad’s salary increase going to home issues. Your case is a good example of why ED admission is tricky for those who are relying on Barnard “meeting need” with financial aid. Barnard’s definition of “need” might not match your definition. </p>
<p>I do hope you and your parents can find a way to make this work for you all. </p>