Need-aid for <$30K income?

Paying for College
1

<p>I'm considering applying to a few of these schools in CA that are not nationally known, but fairly prestigious regionally.</p>

<ul>
<li>Santa Clara University </li>
<li>University of San Diego</li>
</ul>

<p>I realize that tuition at the privates I'm applying to are quite high ($35k-45k). How good is need-based financial aid here? I'm interested in applying to the business programs. My household income is <$30k and my GPA/scores are fairly average (3.6, 1910/2400) so merit aid will be unlikely.</p>

<p>If you can offer any advice, information, etc. it would be greatly appreciated!</p>

2

<p>Go to one of the schools and talk to a finaid counselor, every situation is different.</p>

3

<p>If it’s not evident on their home page, put the term “net price calculator” into their search box and enter your data to see what an estimated package for your situation might look like.</p>

4

<p>Be sure to also apply to some financial safeties…schools that you know that you can afford with assured aid.</p>

<p>If you’re a Calif resident, then you’d probably qualify for Cal Grant and Pell grant, which is nice, but won’t pay for college.</p>

<p>If you live in Calif, be sure to apply to some UC…including some lower-tier UCs like Merced and Riverside…because the UCs are good about meeting need for low income kids.</p>

<p>USD does not meet need. Neither does Santa Clara…and it’s a reach for you. If you were accepted to either school, you’d likely have a gap which it doesn’t sound like your family could cover. If their apps are lengthy, you might want to spend your time applying to other schools where your financial chances would be better.</p>