Successful financial aid appeals?

<p>My financial aid package was terrible. Worse than terrible, actually, it was nonexistent. Other than my 10k merit scholarship, all I got was unsubsidized loans. My family only makes around 100k, so they are expecting us to pay over half of our income for me to attend. Has anyone appealed their financial aid and received a significantly higher amount of money? If I don't get more then there is no way that I can attend.</p>

<p>I dunno, but you go glen coco!</p>

<p>They will probably tell you you will need to take out loans. Please try and let us know what happens.</p>

<p>I appealed and was awarded about 35k extra; however, my case was fairly unique and compelling. I have not heard of anyone else having a successful appeal – but then, families’ financial situations are not a discussion point at UChicago, usually. I don’t even know which of my friends get aid/pay full.</p>

<p>glencoco, at this point it is not possible to appeal a financial aid decision because the decision is an estimate, and not a final package-- but you can always provide additional information to us that will assist us as our financial aid team establishes your final financial aid package, and more information is always valuable for students whose aid packages do not seem possible to manage at this point. Please make sure to submit your FAFSA and your parents’ 2012 tax returns as soon as you are able, and discuss with your parents the option of submitting an additional letter detailing any extenuating circumstances that affect your family’s ability to pay. You are always welcome to contact your regional counselor or our financial aid office at <a href=“mailto:college-aid@uchicago.edu”>college-aid@uchicago.edu</a> for guidance.</p>