<p>My son posed the question about getting out of an ED as we were very concerned about aid. Here was the response so you can judge whether it is worthwhile. We chose to apply RD instead.</p>
<p>Thank you for your interest in Northwestern. Upon receiving your offer of admission and provisional financial aid award, you would have the opportunity to file an appeal if you felt the calculated family contribution was unsustainable and could document financial hardship (loss of wages, medical expenses, etc.). Upon appealing the award, if you still felt it would be impossible to attend based on the finances, you would need to write to the director of financial aid requesting to be released from the Early Decision contract.</p>