<p>I've been accepted to Boston University and Ohio State University in their nutrition programs. These two schools are my top two choices, and I realize that both are good schools. However, my top choice is BU, but my parents (both graduated from OSU) are in favor of OSU. Right now, based on my financial aid from BU and my scholarships from OSU, I would pay about $1000 more per year at BU. My parents are concerned, though, because my financial aid is all need-based and dependent upon my need, my academic record, and the availability of funds each school year. I've seen in several places that the financial aid grants don't change much, and I know that at an institution such as BU, the chances of them not providing me with at least some aid is unlikely. I also know that picking OSU would be a "smarter" choice from a financial standpoint because my scholarships are based only on my academics, but I know I would not be as happy there as I would be at Boston. My parents and I are splitting the cost of my education, and I am willing to pay them back every cent that they would spend over what they would pay if I were to go to OSU. How do I convince them to let me go?</p>
<p>What are the college GPA thresholds to renew the scholarships? If they are high (like 3.5), then consider whether the school will be affordable if you lose them.</p>
<p>In terms of the need-based aid, if your parents’ income is temporarily lower than usual, but is likely to rise while you are in college, then need-based aid can be expected to drop somewhat.</p>
<p>You may want to ask on the BU forum section about whether BU’s financial aid has been reliable over the years that students are attending.</p>
<p>Contact BU and ask them to help. They want you and will want to help you find ways to make your enrollment work. </p>
<p>I’m sure they have lots of programs that require student support that would offer you aid, and if you do enough it will surely add up to the $1,000 or more per year you need. </p>
<p>Heck I was just at a college visit the other day with my daughter and learned that the RAs get paid $10k per year for what’s basically a cushy part-time job. I’m thinking of encouraging my daughter to apply if she happens to fall in love with her most expensive college choice. How nice that she might be able to contribute! </p>