I have an EFC of 0, a five person household and my dads income is around 38k. I got my aid package, and basically would have to pay 30k every year. My friend also has an EFC of 0, and his net price was around 10k. How is there such a huge difference, isnt the aid based on financial eligibility?
You can ask for a financial aid review. Maybe you made a mistake on the paperwork. I will say that the FAFSA EFC does not ask the same questions as a school like CMU, which also wants the CSS profile. If your dad has rental property, for example, that will come up in the profile. Or if you have a non-custodial parent, or if your dad owns a small business, that can impact it. But ask for a financial aid review (call them tomorrow). I wouldn’t bring up your friend, I would just tell them your dad’s income and let them know that the amount is unaffordable. Ask them to go over the numbers with you to see if they are right. Maybe have your dad on the call, too.
@dianesteiker Also consider that CMU awards need-based awards on how much they want you. From the financial aid section of the admissions website under “Practice and Principles”:
“Carnegie Mellon’s financial assistance program is designed to meet our dual goal of helping prospective students who have demonstrated financial need afford the cost of education and rewarding those students who have outstanding talents and abilities. Need-based financial assistance is used to enroll high-quality students. Highest quality students will receive the most favorable financial assistance packages.”
So they are kinda merit based. I’ll definitely call for a review otherwise CMU’s off for me. Thanks guys.
@dianesteiker Maybe CMU is looking into the total assets as well? Someone could be retired with a low-income, but a hefty 401K – for example – not saying it is your case.
is ur dad the only source of income? Perhaps, like PentaDad said, they are looking at your assets. My EFC is not 0 but I got basically full tuition. If your total immediate family income is 38k, then it is hard to believe you are paying anything. Definitely call them.