For those who are looking for a success story, my financial aid package increased substantially after appeal. Initially, I had $21,000 in grant money. Now, I have $30,000 in grant money, $2,500 work study, and a $5,500 unsubsidized loan. All of this occurred while my family’s income actually increased. So there is hope out there. The FASFA and CSS Profile don’t tell the whole story and if you appeal, they will try to help you 
How did you word your appeal? Any tips for us? We are putting one together this weekend. Thanks in advance for any tips you can give?
That’s great @CaliCash are your parents willing to pay the rest now?
Please give us more info. What information did you bring with you to sway the appeal in your favor? If I remember correctly your family income was $240,000 with one sibling in college (but not an expensive school, $7000 and commuting) as well as helping out grandparents. Do you think that because the school really wanted you to attend they offered more? Maybe your family income is high but savings/assets are low?
I am also interested in finding this out. I am waiting for a response for an appeal. My financial situation is pretty dire. …nowhere near $240k!
@Northernmom61 Well, in the long run, NU will be way more expensive, so no.
@ginnygin @tdh3k We went on the fin aid website and use the appeal application. We made sure to list our monthly expenses, provide evidence of them, and then we included some other things that were not listed in the FASFA as CSS Profile that have affect our ability to pay the original $47,000 per year. We also did it in person, so I don’t know if that makes a difference. I can’t speak to what was actually said in the letter. My mom actually wrote the letter on the spot in front of the financial aid officer.
@goingnutsmom I wish I could help you more. We just listed our expenses and provided notarized documentation of things that did not appear on any of the fin aid applications. I just wanted to let you know it’s possible. But ask early. They said it can take anywhere between 7-10 business days but for me, it took 3. I also imagine that as time goes on, they will be less generous. They also send emails for any additional info during the process. I have no idea if it was because they wanted me. I mean, my mom told the woman about something I just accomplished and she added it to my file, so I have no clue.
I just remembered that I took a pic of the letter! My mom also mentioned in the letter that NU was my number one school and that we were both really excited about the chance I had to attend. I was also invited to a special program where they flew me out for free. So it’s possible that had an impact.
Thank you got the update! It was helpful . Wish you the best in your college endeavors.
Sorry to hear that @CaliCash I had been following you financing story.