<p>Are the merit-based scholarships that GW awards separate from the need-based aid? If I were eligible for a scholarship, would that be in addition to any need-based aid I receive, or would they consider the merit money part of my need based aid?</p>
<p>My understanding with GW is you can get one or the other but not both.</p>
<p>GW FA prepares a FA “Package” based on your FAFSA, CSS Profile, and GPA/SAT’s. They try and meet your “Need” award based on the formula COA-EFC=NEED. Your EFC is determined by the FAFSA.</p>
<p>Now, this aid can be merit, need-based, or both. The amount of merit will depend on the incoming class strength, your GPA/SAT’s, and money available to award that year.</p>
<p>GW is very generous with BOTH - They can also use “Grant Aid” which is free money. However, your package award will likely include loans, and work study if desired.</p>
<p>My “S” was awarded a Presidential Scholarship (Renewable), Alumni Grants, Loans, and Work Study.</p>
<p>As parents, we had to cover about 1/2 of the annual COA at GW which is about 60K/yr. So, he’s going to GW in DC for 30K/yr. This is less than the costs of most private universities near us.</p>
<p>Hope this example helps.</p>
<p>CJ</p>