<p>Hi!</p>
<p>I have a question. I was awarded a fin.aid package for full need, but my family's income has dropped. Since my efc is now lower, will I be getting a larger package this year?</p>
<p>Thanks!</p>
<p>If your school meet 100% of need for all students, yes.</p>
<p>But remember, aid is based on the past year, so if there is a current blip that has not been prolonged, it doesn’t mean you’ll get more aid now.</p>
<p>Your need for 2009 is what gives you aid for the 2010-11 school year. Your need as calculated for 2010 which is happening now will be what is used to give you aid the following year.</p>
<p>There are extenuation circumstances that may be allowed, but that is how it works in general. Also fin aid packages, as a rule, tend to get less generous as you move up in college. You are expected to take a larger role in meeting college costs. More work study, more loans, less in the way of grants is the way it often goes. Your loan maximums go up, for instance as you go through college.</p>
<p>THere may also be other opportunities at your college. Departmental awards, specific grants for specific majors sometimes come into the picture for those who are at the top of their department. Also job possibilities and internships may be expanded. But pure give away money, as a rule tends to go down, and the student contribution tends to increase along with higher Stafford limits.</p>