<p>Hi!
I'm currently a student in Year 12 (11th grade) from the UK, and am beginning to look into universities in the US (to start in September 2015). I am hoping to apply for schools like Stanford (my preference), Harvard and Princeton (if I manage to get the grades!) However, the financial side will be a problem for me, I will most likely need to apply for funding to go. I was wondering if anyone could give me some guidance as to how much funding is available for these schools, and whether my chances of acceptance are reduced by applying for aid? I can't seem to find much information about it online!</p>
<p>Most of the other lists are less helpful, as the list (say) the top 10 unis that gave the most money. So a uni like Vassar (which is need blind and full support for demonstrated need) won’t show up b/c it is a small school.</p>
<p>“Need blind” unis do not factor in financial aid; the rest do consider it as a factor.</p>
<p>Harvard is very generous- but it is not need blind, and the competition is ferocious. ! Stanford is much less generous with internationals, but (as you can see on their website) it does exist. It is as hard to get into as Harvard: it you will want to have the grades + a patent + a national ranking in something.</p>
<p>The way the financial aid system works is that your family fills in a bunch of paperwork, and the unis determine what your need is, and (depending on the uni) they offer you some or all of that amount, in the form of grants, work-study jobs, and/or loans. Most of the unis have an on-line calculator to help you figure out the maximum amount you are eligible for.</p>