<p>So, I've just discovered the University of Chicago. I got one of those solicitous letters in the mail from them and thought I'd learn a little more. I was surprised to learn what an excellent and underappreciated school it is. Apparently, its math, physics, and astrophysics programs, among others, are tops. An obscene number of Nobel Prize Winners are associated with UChicago. Best of all, it has an intellectual atmosphere where students come to learn for its own sake.</p>
<p>But you all probably already knew this. I didn't, so I thought I'd harp a little about it.</p>
<p>However, as a senior in the process of applying to colleges, I have a little dilemma. I need a lot of money, and by a lot I mean as much as full tuition in scholarships or financial aid. My mother has completed a few financial aid estimators and has achieved mixed results. My EFC ranges from $17,000 to $30,000 (I think... my mom was reluctant to tell me the latter figure. Undoubtedly it was something exorbitant). My parents can afford to spend a maximum of $10,000 on the entire college experience.</p>
<p>So, my question is, does the University of Chicago have much for scholarships? What kinds of students receive scholarships? How is the financial aid?</p>
<p>I don't ask with the intention of trying to mold myself to the model student UChicago is looking for, but I'm very curious to know if I stand a chance at affording Chicago.</p>
<p>You will find your aid offer from chicago will be in line with your aid offer from other comparable schools. While there is a small chance of merit scholarships, don't bank on it. Most of the merit offers I've heard about went to kids bound for the ivies.</p>
<p>If an EFC calculator says your parents can afford $17,000 or more, and your parents are saying they can only afford $2-3000 per year, you need to have a long chat, and perhaps check out local community colleges. </p>
<p>Speaking as a parent, I can tell you that ALL financial aid offices expect parents to make BIG sacrifices. This can include borrowing a good deal of the cost of college and paying for the education over a 10 year period. That's what many of us have done or are doing. </p>
<p>No parent at the start of this process can believe the numbers from the calculators. It took me a long time to recognize the reality. </p>
<p>Just remember, when a college says they meet "all need", it is the college that defines what the "need" is to be met.</p>
<p>Yes - there is major sticker shock for us parents. If your mom is getting such a wild variation in EFC's, it may be due to a finanical situation such as a business partnership or divorce - and accountant with a background in this type of situation may help.</p>
<p>In the EFC calculation - especially with institutional methodology - an assumption is made that you and your 'rents will scale back expenses and/or borrow to afford college. If your parents are not able or willing to do so, you have to take a pretty hard look at things financially.</p>
<p>Also, I read in a letter and on UChicago's website that they sponsor national merit scholarships. They only state it vaguely; there's no "we'll give you x dollars if you list the University of Chicago as your first choice."</p>
<p>Is anyone familiar with their national merit scholarships? I'm sure it won't be much since comparable schools offer at most $2,000 per year.</p>
<p>"Most of the merit offers I've heard about went to kids bound for the ivies."</p>
<p>I thought that the average student at UChicago was nearly ivy quality in his stats and achievements. Don't the adcoms look for anything special?</p>
<p>lola-cho, I got one of Chicago's NM scholarships last year. It was ~$2500, I think. It may not seem like much, but it got rid of most of my loans. </p>
<p>Chicago gives out three types of scholarships:
~30 full tuition scholarships
~150-200 $9500 scholarships
$2500 scholarships for NM Finalists</p>
<p>I'll be honest, though. Financial aid at Chicago is hit-or-miss, so be aware of that when you apply. </p>
<p>Not to hijack the thread, but have you considered Rice? It's not completely dissimilar (especially in the quality of its physics department), and it has a good reputation for merit aid. It's also slightly cheaper and a lot smaller than other top schools.</p>
<p>UofC doesn't work real hard for those NM finalists, but it has upped the amount in recent years. When my son was enrolled (1996-2000) those awards were only $750 per year.</p>
<p>Yeah, I was wondering that too. Is the distinguishing factor among applicants academics, community service, extracurriculars, or something else?</p>
<p>I know one student who received the scholarship last year (unfortunately, not from my household!). The student was nearly straight A with many AP classes at a selective public HS, had a 1550 (old) SAT & 35 ACT. The student led the team that won the HS a national academic championship, also won individual honors in the student's particular area. For EC's the main one was a two year research program at a top tier Univ. where the student developed a new approach to applying the concept of time-line in understanding ancient texts. The student also wrote outstanding essays and made it clear Chicago was first choice. I'm not sure what the others look like, but if this one is any indication, one has to be quite accomplished.</p>
<p>One of my friends was a NMS and got (almost) a full ride. Then again, the woman in question was accepted to three Ivies and MIT. She was more than qualified. She's attending now.</p>
<p>I guess, as idad states, it all depends on exactly how great your merits are.</p>
<p>S -2nd year had 1570 old SAT, first in class. State awards. Accepted at Ivies, full ride Univ of Michigan and others. Nothing from Chicago but did have NMF award. Attending Chicago and loving it.</p>