<p>Being that Emory seems to enjoy the presence of some notable academics -- with Salmon Rushdie especially being one of them -- I've been recently interested in transferring. My only concern, however, has been affordability. A few weeks ago I ran my numbers through the school's mock aid calculator, only to unfortunately find that I would be responsible for about $21000 a year. </p>
<p>That figure, of course, is certainly not unreasonable, especially given the fact that it is a fraction of the original sticker price. But still, my parents only have a combined income of $71000, and not much in terms of savings. At any rate, I thought the school was renowned for making its education extremely affordable for those who matriculate from lower-middle class backgrounds?</p>
<p>Does anyone have any ideas as to why this figure might be so high, or what I am maybe missing?</p>
<p>I have no idea what could have went wrong. My parents make about the same as your parents, and seeing that number, I’m a little afraid now. Have you talked to the office of financial aid? I plan on calling them soon.</p>
<p>The financial aid calculator isn’t the most reliable source to be honest, and I think it tends to err on the side of underestimation to prevent disappointment. The only way to really know for sure what your financial aid package would be is to go through the process.</p>
<p>I will say this though, according to the College Board and the US Department of Education, Emory has a reputation of meeting 100% of financial need. If you are accepted they will do what they can to make you able to attend. </p>
<p>I wouldn’t let financial concerns prevent you from applying and soliciting aid.</p>
<p>“The Loan Cap Program (LCP) caps cumulative Federal Subsidized Stafford Loan debt at $15,000 for dependent undergraduate students whose families’ annual total incomes are between $50,000 and $100,000. With the Loan Cap Program, students receive a standard financial aid award for freshman and sophomore years. This award could include federal or state aid, institutional loans or grants, or Work-Study. After a student has accrued a total of $15,000 in Federal Subsidized Stafford Loans while enrolled at Emory, grants will be provided to cover any remaining need-based funding incurred through degree completion.”</p>