<p>Will I be screwing myself out of any chance of merit aid by sending the deposit. I don't really know how merit aid works, but the general principle is to get kids to come who wouldn't otherwise, right? So would I be hurting myself? I am pretty torn right now, because I am waiting for more decisions to come on April 1st, but at the same time I want one of my top 2 or 3 housing choices (BJ, Snell, or Hitchcock). I also was surprised to get NO fin. aid from Chicago. Though I will probably challenge it, I don't expect a drastic change. And what are the ramifications of sending a deposit (besides losing the money) if I want to withdraw my matriculation later (it would only be for $ reasons)?</p>
<p>This sounds like a question for Libby.</p>
<p>This is a really old post, but I'm reviving it because it applies to me. i'm in the exact same situation (exact... same... you have no idea how same... NO finaid whatsoever, need them to re-evaluate) and sent in my deposit+housing stuff Saturday. I'm still not sure if I can go, financially, and was worried about consideration for merit scholarships as well, but the $350 deposit was not a big problem.
I don't think merit scholarships are used as a "teaser" to entice kids in to coming- they are given to qualified applicants regardless of whether or not they have decided to attend.
ALSO. IF you notify them in writing by May 1st, the $350.00 deposit is refundable with no 'dings'. Since scholarships/final finaid come out in early April, you would have plenty of time to withdraw and still recieve your depost back. I'm definitely sure they don't want everyone doing this, but for certain people it makes sense... those of us definitely planning on attending who would only be dragged kicking and screaming from campus if the financial deal didn't work out or an unpassable scholarship were offered elsewhere.</p>
<p>"$350 deposit was not a big problem"
If $350 isn't a problem- then there is no wonder that you didn't receive aid. Then again, 48k per year is a bit more than $350.</p>
<p>I think that the only ones who should worry about this are those with 35-36 ACT and 4.0 GPA and up. If you look at the site with the past recipients, then you will realize how competitive those really are. (makes me cry a little inside over my stats)</p>
<p>Not to be egotistical, but I am fortunate enough to fit into that category.</p>
<p>drummerdude - I think all the EA's are considered in the housing pool first, and the RD's second, so you can wait a bit if you are worried.</p>