HELP! Does 0 from one state school mean 0 from another?

<p>OK so we live in Illinois…she wants to go to an Illinois State School. Illinois State is her first choice.</p>

<p>Since Northern Illinois Univ sent us an aid letter w/ no aid except for a couple of very small unsub/sub loans. Do I dare hope that Illinois State will come thru with something?</p>

<p>What if I call Illinois State Finacial Aid and talk to them? If I tell them that they are her first choice? It’s the truth…will it help?</p>