<p>Our S is in his second semester of his freshmen year. H and I are paying for his COA minus his subs gov't loan. Tuition is over 40K per year. We have just completed the FAFSA form and the IDOC. From looking at the EFC our chances of getting any aid is not looking good for the next college year. My H told me that a guy in his office was in the same boat and contact his child's school to see if they would consider financial aid. I am not sure of all the details but it worked in his favor.
My question is has anyone done this beyond the first year of college? I know that at S school aid is awarded on a yearly basis. Is it worth it to pick up the phone and call the financial aid office? The EFC from the FAFSA is so mis-leading to our real situation and the IDOC is even worse. I would appreciate it if anyone can share their experiences.</p>
<p>Calling the college and asking them to reevaluate your FA award due to special circumstances is always an option. You should be ready with your documents and strong reasons for the review. </p>
<p>I'm assuming that by IDOC you mean the CSS Profile (IDOC is just the supporting documents that you send for distribution to the schools).</p>
<p>Thanks I meant the CSS. It is rather depressing when you complete these forms and it appears to them that you have all this money readily available. My S school has sent us requests for donations to the parents fund, the school fund, etc. I wanted to send it back and ask them to donate to our tuition fund, but of course I didn't.</p>
<p>I'm having trouble understanding your situation. This year you paid $40K+, less the amount of subsidized loans? And next year you are being asked to do the same? </p>
<p>It sounds consistent from year to year with no substantial change in family finances, which is typical and expected.</p>