<p>So I applied ED to an excellent school and was accepted. I also applied EA to another great school and was once again fortunate to be accepted. Problem is, even though both schools say they give need-based aid, the school I applied EA to gave me significantly more. As in, 30k more per year. I'm torn on whether I should back out of ED based on financial aid reasons - the school I ED'd to is slightly more prestigious, but the disparity in offered aid is more than slight and makes the difference between something my parents can comfortably afford and something that will place a great financial burden on them. I am fairly confident that my ED school could offer me maybe 5-10k more if I pushed, but they won't match the other school's offer. I have excellent stats and have a decent shot at HYPS for RD, but of course those schools are a reach for almost everyone. Any advice would be appreciated.</p>
<p>That’s what happens a lot when people can compare offers. You signed a contact with your ED school in that you can get a release for financial aid reasons. So you have your fail safe clause and you are one of the lucky ones in that you have another school that shows you the possibilities out there for you which many kids who did not apply EA to a school or their EA school did not yet give out info on their aid/merit packages do not have. That’s why ED is not a good idea if you need money. </p>
<p>It’s a decision you can only make, and you are fortunate to have an eye opening offer on the table. My suggestion is to back out of ED and see what you else you get in RD since you will still have a bird in hand since you made a double fisted catch. </p>
<p>Congratulations. I know it’s a dillemma for you, but you are really one of the very lucky ones.</p>
<p>That is a crap load of money over 4 years of college. I would go to the ED and put your cards on the table. School X has offered me this amount and unless you can get close, I have to withdraw my ED acceptance. Then I would go with the EA school without a doubt, since it is a school you like.</p>
<p>Frankly I’m surprised you already got your FA offer from your EA school. As Cpt stated, you can back out based on finances but that’s your choice. From what you’ve said you CAN afford the $ but would rather not.</p>