Penn or Cornell? Comes down to financial aid.

Paying for College
1

<p>I was accepted to UPenn and Cornell and applied for financial aid.</p>

<p>Financial aid is very important to me because I don't want to burden my parents.</p>

<p>Both schools gave me a significant amount in aid.</p>

<p>Penn = $22k grants, $17k EFC, $10k self-help</p>

<p>Cornell = $27k grants, $16k EFC, $5k self-help</p>

<p>My parents said they can afford to pay for Cornell without having to take out loans, and they are really ecstatic about that. Yet, my dad said I shouldn't rule out Penn because it is an excellent school.</p>

<p>I know that both are good schools, but is it worth it to turn down Penn for Cornell based on financial aid? Should I even try to negotiate with Penn for just $5k more knowing that I would go there if they offered me that much?</p>

2

<p>A few schools match other schools' financial aid awards.
It's definitely worth a try!</p>

3

<p>I think that it is worth a try, but giving up Penn for Cornell isn't a bad deal. Unless you want to go to Wharton, I'd say go to Cornell. You'd graduate with less debt.</p>

4

<p>Fax a letter to Penn stating that you'd love to attend if your family could afford it financially, but Cornell's offer is easier on your family; include any special circumstances (medical bills, etc.). The worst that would happen is they don't change your award.</p>

<p>However, only send that note if Penn is your first choice.</p>