PROVISIONAL AWARD LETTER

Paying for College
1

So I recently got into UCLA, but the OOS tuition was too high to afford. But, I recently got an email telling me to check my “provisional award letter,” and they offered me a lot of money in grants and scholarships. Can someone explain to me what “expected family contribution” is? (It says $2,639 for my family…is that low?) Also, I know that it is just an estimate, but does the amount awarded change a lot? Or would what’s listed pretty much be how much I need to pay?

***ALSO…I got into UC Davis and I only have to pay $6K out of my pocket each year, versus about $20K to go to UCLA. Which one is more worth it?

2

I’m confused. Is your cost to attend UCLA $20,000 or is it $2639?

3

The cost to attend is 20K, but it says that my expected family contribution is $2639

4

My question is if the provisional letter award value changes a lot or remains practically the same, since it is only an estimate

5

Your provisional award letter is as accurate as the figures are you listed on the FAFSA. When your income is verified by the school and if your family’s 2014 tax transcripts don’t match the original FAFSA figures, the school has to update your award.

6

Look at your cost to attend. Can you afford $20,000 a year?

7

Also, note the requirement for the renewal (if renewable at all) of grant and scholarships. You don’t want to be surprised in sophomore year.

8

Usually there is an OOS student fee of 23k in extra tuition that is not covered by any aid. Although UCLA does have some alumni scholarships that may be awarded. Can you list the details of your packages and COA here? you can copy/paste. We can then offer some perspective.