<p>I was wondering whether or not to throw in something about financial aid into one of my "Tell Us Why you want to come here" essays. However, this school is need-blind. So, then basically I'd let them know that I do need financial aid. The pro is that maybe they'd realize that in order for me to attend their school I'd need aid and so they'd want to give me more. However, it is an ivy so I feel that since it is a reach maybe instead they'll see that I need aid and since i'm not the strongest candidate, maybe they won't accept me because they don't want to spend extra money on me. This is for a school that isn't as well endowed and also my first choice, so I don't want to ruin my chance of getting in. At the same time, the only way I can attend is if I have aid.</p>
<p>they cannot change your financial aid package depending on your essays</p>
<p>the amount of money that you will get is already predetermined by your FAFSA, so no amount of 'hinting' in your essays will change it.</p>
<p>do you think that it may change their decision about whether or not to accept me if they know I need financial aid though?</p>
<p>supposedly it won't</p>
<p>but you never know what goes on behind closed doors</p>
<p>You say the only pro The pro is that maybe they'd realize that in order for me to attend their school I'd need aid and so they'd..."</p>
<p>But now I hope you see that that is out of the question. Therefore there are no 'pros' to mentioning it. Only potential cons or neutrals. IMO, that is a very negative reason to mention for wanting to addend a particular school...because "maybe they'd realize that in order for me to attend their school I'd need aid and they'd give me more" as in gee, I'm applying because you have $$$, and maybe you'll give me more if I hint enough! They all know that finances are a consideration. Look at the reasons for attending that particular school, putting finances aside.</p>
<p>You seem very naive about financial aid. Why don't you read the main article on our host's website about Ivy League "financial aid" or rather Need Based Aid. Also remember that the people who admit you, or not as the case may be, are not the same people who offer or calculate financial aid.</p>
<p>Bottom Line: it is a solid negative to mention in the way that you propose--as a manupulative device or negotiating position.</p>
<p>thanks for the response. yes, i am pretty clueless about financial aid so i'm glad you told me about that article</p>