<p>I am currently a senior in high school and I'm really set on going to Rowan University. For merit scholarships they consider both GPA and SAT Scores (like most schools). My GPA is really high (103) but my SAT scores were lower (1930). </p>
<p>I've heard from many people that if a student submits a letter to the school requesting more merit money, there's a chance the school might consider giving more money. I know it might not work but I figured it was definitely worth a try.</p>
<p>So my questions are has anyone done this and succeeded? If so, what did you write in your letter and how did you format it? If you could help me out I would be eternally grateful. Thank you so much!</p>
<p>The majority of times I’ve seen merit aid adjusted has been for either new information (higher score or increase in grades) or a competing merit offer from a peer institution. If that’s the case send the additional information to Rowan and ask for reconsideration.</p>
<p>Thank you so much! I’ll be sure to include that in my letter. Do you think University of the Sciences would be considered a peer institution? Also, do you think I should include a copy of research I did during the course of my senior year?</p>
<p>Moosavi: Erin’s Dad gave you some wonderful advice. You can’t lose. A lot depends on your major and the market as well. Let them know that Rowan is your first choice, but also include the additional considerations.</p>
<p>Erin’s Dad and I have learned a life lesson: Those who generally get what they want are the ones who ask for it. As long as they do it nicely, in the form of a “please I hope you reconsider” instead of a demand or a “this guy would buy me flowers every day, but you won’t”. There’s also no shame in groveling.</p>
<p>There’s also need-based aid based on your FAFSA. That’s an unknown right now. Money seem too flow a little from July-September. One of the frustrating things about college shopping is that you don’t know the price until after you’ve bought it. </p>
<p>Spaceman, in the vast majority if cases (assuming the application forms were done on time) students receive need based financial aid awards either with or very shortly after their acceptances. MOST are NOT awarded between June and September. </p>
<p>In addition, if this student received a merit award, it reduced his financial need. He may not have financial need given the merit award he has received.</p>
<p>Still, I would also encourage the student to ask. I’m assuming the student is instate for Rowen.</p>
<p>SpacemanEd: Thank you so much for your wonderful advice. This whole process has been quite stressful and you and and Erin’s Dad are making it easier. I am currently working on a rough draft of my appeal letter. If I post it some time this week, do you mind glancing over it to make sure it sounds okay? I don’t want to come off as demanding or ungrateful for what I’ve already received. Thanks again!</p>
<p>Thumper1: Yes I have received my FAFSA and I am not eligible for any needs-based aid. The problem is that my older brother is going to Dental School next year and his tuiton, apartment expenses etc. are putting a burden on my parents and I was hoping I could help out. And I totally agree with you that it does not hurt to ask. Thank you for your help!</p>
<p>Yes…you can and should ask. BUT your parents supporting your brother in some way in dental school will very likely NOT be considered at all by your college. And with regard to merit aid, it definitely won’t matter. Merit aid is based on the strength of your application, not your family finances.</p>
<p>You should include any notable achievements that have happened since your application. NEW things that might give the school reason to reconsider your award. </p>
<p>What was your CR/Math SAT combination because THAT is likely what the school is using. </p>
<p>And if you are out of state for Rowen, the school might view your request differently than if you are a state resident.</p>
<p>Thumper1: I am instate for Rowan. Since my application, my GPA has increased (however only by 0.1) points, I have taken 2 extra college classes, and I have completed some research. Do you think this is enough for them to reconsider my merit? My combined SAT CR/Math was 1260. What are the differences between in state and out of state requests? Thank you again. </p>
<p>I think it’s a plus that you are instate.</p>
<p>I would absolutely present the school with your more recent accomplishments. </p>
<p>Good luck.</p>
<p>Thumper1: Thank you so much for your advice. I’m almost done my rough draft so if I post it on this thread sometime this week would you mind taking a look at it to make sure its sounds ok?</p>