<p>High School Junior
Estimated 3.3 unweighted GPA (Weighted probably only around 3.4/3.5)
25% class rank
1330/1920 SAT (first try, taking again in june)
I had a bad freshman year, but I've gotten better.
I took An "Accelerated" class freshman year, took honors chemistry last year, and I'm taking AP Biology this year.
Worked as an umpire freshman year.
Volunteered to help coach my little sister's softball team the summer after freshman year, and I logged 24 hours.
Taken private drum lessons and had a band for almost two years now.
Started the political science club at my school this year.
Played intramural basketball every year.
Worked from May 2008-October 2008 at a grocery store (15-20+ hours per week).
Connecticut resident (out of state).
37,000 EFC</p>
<p>Do I have a chance at merit aid if I do get in?</p>
<p>My son is going into his second year and received merit aid. You should visit the school, especially the admissions office. See if you can get an interview, just so you can make yourself known. You’ll get to tell your story, too. If you do this, and it is feasible, you should make a follow up visit and make sure the ‘powers that be’ know you are visiting again and that you have a strong interest in the school. Merit aid really depends on your HS record and what you can be expected to produce at the college. Loyola has several levels of merit aid, but with the bad economy, they have seen their endowment shrink. The result appears to be smaller awards, but to more students. Without aid, a year at Loyola as a residential student is going to cost about $48K. Here is what Loyola says on their website about their Presidential Scholarships, which is their main merit aid:</p>
<p>High school seniors with a 3.7 average and SAT score of 1350 (Critical Reading/Mathematics) or ACT composite score of 30 are eligible for consideration for scholarships ranging from $7,500 to full tuition each year for four years. Presidential Scholarships are not need-based. </p>
<p>Best of luck. My son loves Loyola and we are very grateful for their financial aid.</p>
<p>I had a 31 on my ACT and a 91 average and I only got $10k/year. But in previous years students with the same or worse stats got $12k. I think the economy decreased merit aid.</p>