<p>Just got an estimate of aid eligibility based on current info and I'm wondering what happens if the estimate changes considerably ...The letter says that an official award is sent to applicants who have made a commitment to attend. That worries me.</p>
<p>Additionally - this letter accounts for tuition, fees, room and board -- but not books, supplies, transportation and personal - listed at $3500 per year! No small amount.</p>
<p>Finally the award -- has $6515 in grants, $1000 in work study, $3500 in direct sub loan, $2000 in direct unsub loan and $3385 in Direct Parent loan.</p>
<p>No info is included on how to get these loans -- does that come after you confirm?</p>
<p>Is this a typical award letter for SUNY schools?</p>
<p>Thanks for any guidance.</p>
<p>Rachel</p>
<p>The books/supplies/etc. line is a substantially inflated estimate. For example, it includes assumed costs of students from far outside the area who may have to fly to the school. If you are relatively local to New Paltz, your costs will only be a tank of gas or so.</p>
<p>The supplies and personal costs will be paid throughout the year. For the most part books are paid at the beginning of each semester. Once you decide if you are attending the school the FA office will help you set up the loans. I don’t know if this is typical of SUNYs.</p>
<p>It’s difficult to tell what’s “typical” for a SUNY as they all have different awards and the award structure is different for instate vs. OOS. But, assuming you’re a NY resident, the grants are likely federal and state (TAP) and that’s usually all instate kids get for need based aid. Don’t count on the work study award - you have to find a W/S job at NP and earn it over the course of the year. That may or may not happen.</p>
<p>You will apply for the student/parent loans, if you choose to accept them, directly through the school. There will be info provided on that, but it doesn’t have to be done until summer. The school will disburse the loans each semester by crediting your account. </p>
<p>I agree that the misc costs are well inflated and are all within your control. Shop around for your books as you can usually save a considerable amount by avoiding the bookstore. The school will publish the exact book information on their website a few weeks before classes begin (hopefully!).</p>
<p>You need to talk to your parents about the Plus loans. Some parents won’t/can’t agree to them.</p>
<p>You probably need to get a summer job to help cover some of your costs. There is often an expectation that students have to earn some of their college costs.</p>