<p>GWU is #1 on my list and I am seriously considering applying early decision. However, my family is barely considered middle class and can in no way afford college no matter where I go.</p>
<p>So considering the very high price of the GWU, is it worth taking a risk applying early decision and potentially getting accepted with very little financial aid?</p>
<p>I think everybody should apply, even the ones who think they don't qualify.
You'd be surprised you may get a little bit of money. I thought I wasn't getting any money at all, only merit, meanwhile I got like 30 something k between loans and grants.
the worst it can happen is the word no, so I would try. Even ED 1 or 2</p>
<p>thanks...well i understand what you mean when you say that the worst that can happen is that they say no.....but what if i do get accepted but get very little financial aid...if thats the case i would want to opt out of it because of the financial strain it would put on me and my family especially since the early decision is non-binding</p>
<p>and i would not be able to opt out of it</p>
<p>You can opt out of ED if you can prove that you cannot afford it.</p>
<p>you are allowed to opt out if financially is not an option</p>
<p>o really? thanks i never knew that...how exactly would that work, for instance, how can you prove you cannot afford it?</p>
<p>Schools are generally fairly lenient. Show them your family's income and explain to them why you can't afford it. They can't force you to go if you can't pay for it.</p>
<p>ok thanks...that helped me make a decision...i never knew that before</p>
<p>Please verify this info w/ somebody at GW before you go ahead with applying ED. GW says that ED is binding, and I think they mean it. General wisdom on these boards says that you should not apply ED if Financial Aide is a necessity. Don't get yourself in a bad situation.</p>