<p>Negotiating does work, but only under particular circumstances. But at schools like Oxy, they want to make sure that their nets yield the best class possible, and sometimes, that means sweetening the packages for certain students. It should be noted that negotiation will not work for the Ivy league/state colleges, because these schools tend to give fin aid based solely on need, but athletes are the exception to the rule. I know that Oxy will give serious money to the best students .</p>
<p>If you want to negotiate, you have to be a competative student. This means that other top schools want you, too. Your chances for increasing your aid will jump ten fold if you were admitted into a HYPSC(MIT). </p>
<p>So if you believe that Oxy's fin aid package is the only thing keeping you from committing and you genuinely need that increase in aid, bring your other offers HYPSC(MIT) along with lots of enthusiasm with you during open house. Who knows, an adjustment could be made in your favor.</p>