<p>Hey -- Chi is one of my son's top three choices, he'll be applying in the fall. The thing is, the other two choices are very clear that they meet 100% of unmet need, and that given the situation, (less than 10K income, EFC 0), a family could expect full aid. They offer no merit aid. OTOH, Chicago's language isn't as strong. Their website says they "try" to meet 100%, but other threads here have suggested that the actual award varies with their interest in the student, etc. Son is a little concerned that he may get attached to this school and have their aid package be less than full, as that would prevent him from going. (Parent loans aren't an option to make up the difference.)</p>
<p>A friend of my S's has a package that covers everything. No parent loans are involved, but a student loan of about $2500, and work study is. He is very pleased with his package.</p>
<p>Call the fin aid office (AFTER May 1!) and ask what their track record is with these circumstances. They may say nothing useful, but they could be forthcoming!</p>
<p>Our family's EFC is very low...and my parents will have two kids in college for all of my four undergrad years.</p>
<p>I got a $9500/year merit scholarship from UChi, and then our financial aid package covers everything else with state and federal grants and UChi grants--yes, that's correct: no work study or loans for me or my parents! All my parents and I are expected to contribute to is my book and transportation money!</p>
<p>I am so happy! I received a full merit scholarship (Chancellor's Scholarship) to the University of Pittsburgh, and I had thought that I would have to turn Chicago down for financial reasons. Thank God for the financial aid office! I have seen some complaints, but they were very very generous when they put together our package. </p>
<p>I really hope your son comes to Chicago! It's so wonderful!</p>
<p>My family's income has fallen in the past few years, and I received excellent, excellent fin aid from Chicago. My family is so happy about this. I didn't receive a specific merit scholarship, though, but I did receive some "general" ones from the University, as well as loans and work-study.</p>
<p>Like they say, if you don't apply, you will never know how much money you will get.</p>