<p>Alright, I was the one who posted "how in the hell can I affor SC", anyways, with a high EFC and a predicted poor aid package, what can I do to appeal (I have a valid reason - medical illness)?</p>
<p>I already plan on visiting the campus of USC in two weeks (tour and financial aid meeting), but would it be best to see their package first?</p>
<p>Please give me any advice you feel is necessary</p>
<p>Make sure to take a look at the package before putting your angry hat on. If you have issues give the financial aid office a call. Their job is to help you.</p>
<p><a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/financial-aid-scholarships/478938-can-you-negotiate-more-scholarship-grant-money.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/financial-aid-scholarships/478938-can-you-negotiate-more-scholarship-grant-money.html</a></p>
<p>binks, I’m very sorry to hear of your dad’s illness. I think that when you sit down with the finaid people and explain things in a factual way, you will find that they will be understanding and will work with you. I know USC is not very sympathetic to claims regarding lifestyle choices, but in your case your family does not have control over the circumstances that are going to arise when your dad will no longer work. I think a question you could ask is whether it’s possible that adjustments could be made during the course of the academic year if necessary. USC offers a monthly payment plan as a choice over paying the fees upfront. Perhaps it could be discussed that your special circumstances could take into account that such adjustments could be made as the finances change rather than at the beginning of each academic year when the expected COA is calculated as an expected lump sum.</p>