<p>I was accepted to three selective schools that gave me very generous financial aid packages (my parents only have to pay 3k - 4k a year). Unfortunately, though, my family is going through a pretty rough time, I don't know if they'd be able to pay that per year (maybe like 1k - 2k). Furthermore, my brother will be heading off to college next year, and I would like for my parent to use the money for his education, since I was fortunate enough to get such a generous offer. Right now, I have not come to a decision as to which of those three schools I want to attend, and my logic thus far has been that calling the financial aid office of a school that I may not attend to negotiate an offer is a waste of time. However, I am planning to visit all those schools within the next two weeks. But, getting to the point, my question is this: Regardless of whether or not I have visited, should I call up the financial aid offices and talk to them about my situation? Is the process so easy that they can negotiate over the phone?</p>
<p>call them and explain your situation. And get a job to work this summer so you have some cash, even if you don't to put it towards tuition, you should have an emergency fund.</p>
<p>Selective generous schools who have given you almost full aid may be willing to help even further. but you have to reach out to them, be honest and upfront. </p>
<p>I think selective schools would definitely try to work with you, but you'd have to talk to someone at the top of the Financial aid system there. Try to be really honest, but dont over do it.</p>
<p>Sorry you family is going through a rough time. Sueinphilly's advice is a good approach, but realize the schools may not be able to come up with more. Unless something has changed with your family's finances since you applied for financial aid there won't be much to negotiate. i.e, your family's circumstances are already reflected in yout FA package. The fact that all 3 schools leave your parents with $3-4K to pay suggests that they are all assessing your need correctly. Next year's FinAid award will reflect your brother attending college.</p>