<p>So I was recently looking at Sarah Lawrence's creative writing courses and I almost fell out of my seat. They are gorgeous. There is only one problem:</p>
<p>I am a good student in most areas (I struggle in math and science). I am in the National Honors Society. They don't look at SATs (Thank GOD) and I LOVE writing. However, (and here is the point of this post) I am from a middle-class family living in the outer-boroughs of NYC. In short, we can't afford it. </p>
<p>My mom doesn't want me to be discouraged and wants me to look at it and apply there anyway. We're visiting later this fall. She said that if we get a good enough financial deal that we could consider it. I am the type, however, that friends bring on shopping trips so that they don't spend too much money. I'm doubtful that such a scholarship exists unless it is a full-paid one.</p>
<p>Does anyone know about how I might get ahead? Other than an interview, is there something that Sarah Lawrence looks for in a student that it wants to give financial aid to? Also, does the financial aid come with any terms, for example, do I have to get above a B- in all my classes?</p>
<p>I don’t know specifically about terms of scholarships for SLC, but most do have a minimum GPA you must maintain in college. </p>
<p>In addition, most,scholarships are based on your SAT/ACT score and GPA. To get the best awards, you typically need to be at the top of the admitted student pool…in other words well above the 75%ile for accepted students.</p>
<p>But you can’t get an award if you don’t apply. If you want to, do,so with your eyes open, and just be prepared to walk away to a different choice if the money isn’t there for you.</p>
<p>Middle class means different things to different people. What is your family’s income level? How much do your parents say they can afford to contribute each year? </p>
<p>Sarah Lawrence doesn’t appear to claim to meet all demonstrated need. Financial aid based on need alone generally only requires that you make satisfactory academic progress. There is a federal definition of SAP for federal funds but I suppose a school could have a different definition for their funds but I would think it would be less than a B-.</p>
<p>Run the Net Price Calculator at the SLC website, and see if it looks like it might be able to be affordable. Then run a search on that website to find out what you can about any other scholarships that SLC offers. If things look possible, go ahead and apply. If it is clear that there is no way that it can be made affordable, kiss it goodbye and move on.</p>