How to Appeal a Financial Aid Decision

Paying for College
1

I recently got a very generous financial aid package from an Ivy but with a twin brother also going to college it won’t be easy for my family. Another Ivy also offered me better financial aid by a few hundred dollars. Would it be possible to show that college the financial aid I got from the other Ivy and ask them to match it?

Could I also appeal for much lower? I don’t want to make the school mad, but it will also be hard for my family to pay with how expensive my twin’s schooling will be. How could I ask for more? Is there a process? Any insight or advice would be very appreciated!

2

Sure you can appeal…but for a few hundred dollars? Is this school really unaffordable with a few hundred dollars difference?

3

Yes, set up an telephone appointment with a financial aid officer and explain your situation. Offer to send them a copy of the other school’s offer. You won’t make anyone “mad” - schools get financial aid appeals all the time. You may or may not be successful, but there’s absolutely no harm in asking.