<p>So, S applied to U Rochester with decent financial aid, but unfortunately, S's primary benefactor has lost his job. S has tried appealing, but U has stringently stated that no more aid can be given. What should we do in this situation? S really wants to go, but cannot afford here, U Minnesota, or U of I. What actions can be taken?</p>
<p>Does your son have any school acceptances that he can afford to go to?</p>
<p>Most colleges will not reconsider a FA pkg due to a job loss for a certain period of time (I’ve heard of anywhere from 3-12 months) because they want to see if the unemployed individual can find another job.</p>
<p>Since the job loss is recent(?), it’s doubtful you’ll get much consideration for this right away.</p>
<p>PN asks if your son has other affordable options. That would be one place to start.</p>
<p>Another might be asking UR if your son can defer his enrollment by year. By next spring the unemployment will be long standing enough for the FA office to give it special consideration OR the benefactor will have found a new job.</p>
<p>A third option would be a gap year with a new round of applications next year to find a college that is affordable.</p>
<p>If you son plans to defer ot to reapply next year, he should not take any courses during his time off. Taking any courses (even at a CC) could disqualify him from freshman status–and the best aid is usually reserved for freshmen.</p>
<p>I’d probably vote gap year unless there is another affordable choice that is liked.</p>