<p>I'm currently stuck in between two schools; George Washington University and Johns Hopkins University.</p>
<p>Currently with the financial statistics the way they are, I'll have a very tough choice in front of me, but I want to appeal for more financial aid (merit or need-based) from George Washington University which currently attracts me heavily, to make the decision easier, because my parents would never allow me to go to GWU paying more for GWU than JHU. </p>
<p>Just as an extra piece of info to put things in perspective, I'm going for an International Studies/Economics double major and got into the Honors College and Elliot School at GWU.</p>
<p>Statistics:</p>
<p>EFC: $35,000
Johns Hopkins University Offer: $26,500 per year merit, $5000 loan.
George Washington University Offer: $20,000 per year merit, $5000 loan.</p>
<p>Is there a way of asking George Washington University to match the offer from Johns Hopkins or such, or to offer more? How would I do so? Thank you so much!</p>
<p>It’s probably a long shot-- don’t expect a school to dramatically change their offer just because you asked. Also, keep in mind that because different schools have different Costs of Attendance, a school that offers more in merit aid may not actually be the better bargain.</p>
<p>That said, I’ll paste what I posted in a thread earlier today:</p>
<p>IMO-- an appeal letter depends on the school. In general, I’d recommend a sincere letter from the student to the head of the financial aid dept, thanking the school for being admitted, mentioning that you’re grateful for the aid that was offered, and explaining why you believe that that school is the best fit for you. But then mention that unfortunately, your families current financial situation make it unlikely that you’ll be able to attend. And ask for a second look, or reconsideration of the finaid award.</p>
<p>Don’t mention “negotiate.” Often the financial aid dept is in charge of the need-based aid, and the admissions office is in charge of the merit aid. So cc the admissions office. If your grades have improved in the last semester, tell them, and send certified copies. If you’ve received a more generous offer from a similar school, mention it, and include a copy of the award. If your family financial circumstances (lowered income, large medical bills, etc) have changed since '08, mention that you have “special circumstances,” explain what they are, and ask for a special circumstances review. They might have a form for that.</p>
<p>Good luck.</p>
<p>My D who is at GW did tell me a lot of students appealed their awards last year and got a couple more thousand in aid - she wished she had tried. That was last year, but it is worth a try, like sblake7 said, include a copy of your other award.</p>
<p>Give it a try. You may get a match.</p>
<p>as I see it, you have much to possibly gain and very little to loose (maybe a few hours of your time).</p>
<p>Best wishes! Let us know how it works out.</p>
<p>mom6350</p>