<p>MY parents are divorced. I don't know what my father makes, but I think it is upwards of 100,000, but I come from a poor family 20,000<. My EFC for my mother's side (guardian) is 0. I got a preliminary financial aid package in December for Uchicago at 15,000 in FA, 5,000 in Loans. I was extremely surprised at this estimate. I'm going to appeal, but is this normal? I also will receive a Pell Grant, but there is no way that I can take 30,000 per year in loans.</p>
<p>Doesn’t U of Chicago also use the Profile? I believe they require the non-custodial parent Profile form. If so, your dad’s income/assets WILL be considered when they put together your financial aid package. Have you discussed with him whether or how much he will contribute towards your college education?</p>
<p>Yeah, I already did profile and I’m certain that’s what makes my projected aid so low.
My dad will not contribute to my education, which is where the problem arises since they take him into account.</p>
<p>*My dad will not contribute to my education, which is where the problem arises since they take him into account. *</p>
<p>Did your dad submit the non custodial parent info?</p>
<p>where else did you apply?</p>
<p>Are you considered to be independent because you have a guardian? If so, does CSS consider you to be independent?</p>
<p>Yes, my dad filled out CSS non-custodial form. I applied to UF, Brown, Upenn, Northwestern, and Vanderbilt. (and Cal, but the FA there is awful). I meant to say my mom has custody, not that she is my guardian.</p>
<p>Unfortunately whether he will contribute or not is not taken into account, just that he could. You can appeal, and if you have proof he hasn’t paid child support or other maintenance you may have a case but unfortunately because you have enough contact that he completed the form they may not be willing to change the package they gave you. Each school is different though and it is always worth appealling but don’t expect much to change with FA packages.</p>
<p>I don’t think Vandy uses NCP info, do they? If not, that is your best hope.</p>
<p>Alright, thanks. I think I’ll just go to the Financial Aid office to see what they can do.</p>