<p>I know in the e-mail Vanderbilt states there is additional merit-based aid beyond those four or so main scholarships, but I was wondering if anybody has any insight into how much and how easily those are given out?</p>
<p>Thanks!</p>
<p>I can't give you a for-sure answer, but I do know several students who were offered very nice merit awards with their acceptance letters a couple years ago.</p>
<p>We wondered about the same thing. Still would love to hear from some of the Cornelius Vanderbilt winners from A & S about their stats/hook? Rejected for Cornelius with 1580/2330, NMF, Presidential Schol candidate, 1/500 from very competitive public HS, 10 APS all 5s so far, SAT IIs - 780 and 800, leadership, ecs. finalist for full ride @ 2 other top 10 LACs and merit aid from 2 top publics. Vandy still top choice but will need strong offer to make work.
Will we get financial aid offer at same time as acceptance?</p>
<p>Like kelsmom, I've heard of people getting offered 50% and 75% tuition merit money. And pumpkin, your son/daughter is definitely one of the top students applying to Vanderbilt, so maybe (s)he'll get some money along with acceptance!</p>
<p>But that may not exist anymore (or the number offered partial merit tuition is greatly lowered) since the economy is lame [but apparently getting better!].</p>
<p>Not to discourage you pumpkin, I just don't want this to come as a surprise later down the road.</p>
<p>I know 15+ people who applied my year with stats like that. They have maintained GPA's over a 3.9 while here (and in difficult majors). There aid packages only include need based aid. Several of them have no aid besides what National Merit is giving.</p>
<p>My point is, no one is a shoo in for merit based aid. Best of luck.</p>
<p>Thanks - sorry to gripe - we have other excellent choices, just disappointed.</p>
<p>You will get a financial aid award letter with your acceptance letter. Make sure you compare award letters between schools properly - take out just tuition, room, board, and fees. Subtract the gift aid (scholarships & grants). From that point, you'll have a "cost to us" comparison.</p>