<p>Hello,
My daughter just received an acceptance with a considerable scholarship to a school in Washington, D.C. She was accepted to a more competitive school in the midwest six weeks ago, which she prefers, but we have not yet received the acceptance letter, so do not know if any scholarship money has been awarded, probably because it is lost in the mail as we now live in Egypt. She plans to phone them today to ask where her letter is and inquire if she has made the honors program and if any money has been awarded to her. The question is, should she tell them about the other scholarship, with the idea that since the letter has not yet been received, they may take a second look at awarding her money if they have not already? I have no idea whether one can try to pressure a school into a scholarship or if that is a waste of time, and considered terribly pushy and impolite. Sadly, we are one of those families who earns just that bit too much to qualify for financial aid (we are American but live abroad) and cannot afford the full tuition as we have two other children being educated privately because of where we live. Thanks...the sooner someone replies the better as we would like to phone them today and don't know what to do!</p>
<p>If a college really wants a particular student and knows that the student has received a better financial package elsewhere, the college might improve its own package. I know of a situation where this happened. But it was with a student who qualified for financial aid. If yours doesn’t, the situation may be different.</p>
<p>It never hurts to ask. The worst they can say is no. </p>
<p>As for being pushy and impolite, they’ll probably just think you’re me. I’m that way naturally.</p>
<p>If the school she wants to go to has merit scholarships then write a letter with her other awards and any other information or acceptances she can add. Include a brief description of her achievements and how she can contribute to the university. Also, how much she would like to attend but the difference in award money may unfortunately be a deciding factor in this economy. Works for many.</p>
<p>Thanks so much! We will call today when she gets home to see if they sent the letter already and then go from there by writing our own letter to them outlining her strengths and the other award.</p>
<p>londonmom,
Have you checked the midwest school’s website? Many schools now have student financial award info posted on the student’s account page.</p>
<p>Even if they have sent the letter, they could still adjust their scholarship based on how much they want your daughter. It wouldn’t hurt to let them know that they are your daughter’s first choice, if the price is right.</p>