<p>I'm a senior right now and got accepted ED to my top choice school. Given my stellar academics, class rank, and my ECs practically everybody in my school assume that I am getting amazing aid, perhaps a full ride. However, I am not getting ANY financial aid at all because my school is only need-based only and my parents income is over the threshold for aid. I didn't even apply for aid.</p>
<p>Only a few people in my school (with parents in the same income range) who are also not applying for aid understand my situation. Everybody else chastises me for not applying for aid. When I tell those people I would not get any aid because of the need-only policy they give me awkward stares and say "you're so rich". I hate it when people think I'm rich because of my parents' income and education level-it makes me feel awkward. </p>
<p>So how should I explain this to my people without getting these awkward replies?
Is anyone else in my situation? </p>
<p>Don’t share the info of what you did or didn’t get or did or didn’t apply for. You can do it in a way that doesn’t offend by making a joke of it or changing the subject, depending on the situation. My sis in law does a great job of deflecting personal questions, usually by asking, “now why would you ask that?”</p>
<p>This is why you need to look into the financial aid of a school before you apply with a binding ED…</p>
<p>Anyway I am assuming your parents can pay a decent chunk, so they will and you will take out student loans for the rest and work part time. As for when people ask, you can simply say that your school only gives need-based aid and leave at that (generally people only get full-rides from schools that give a lot of merit). The only schools that have no merit aid tend to be top 10 school/top 10 LACs, so congrats, you will be going to a great school!</p>
<p>@Artsy OP’s problem isn’t with the schools aid policy. </p>
<p>I’m in your situation. Finding college comes up in many discussion whether iit be at school, church, or the beach. Many of my friends say that I won’t have to pay for anything because I have great grades for merit scholarships plus financial aid. Except the truth of the matter is I’m only getting merit scholarships. I once said that in a conversation and I received blank stares and some acquaintances were on edge a little after. It was pretty uncomfortable for me to. </p>
<p>I can’t rally offer anyways to get around it because I’m still looking for a way. All you can do is say, “Trust me. I’m not getting an aid.” and move on. Discuss how you’re hoping to get merit scholarships or how else you’re hoping to find your college experience.</p>