I am not an expert on schools with strong film programs, but are you applying to schools with strong drama programs but better aid records, eg, Northwestern?
Londondad
Some of NYU’s big awards seem to be college-dependent. Has anyone seen big awards given to incoming film majors???
The student is applying to Tisch. If the portfolio is excellent, it is possible that this student could,get a great award…but not likely full cost of attendance.
Tisch can give decent aid to preferred applicants; Stern can give outstanding aid to preferred applicants; other programs YMMV. Some of the grad programs can be extremely generous for the right applicants. NYU’s aid is very merit driven based on the few dozen packages I have seen.