Myarmin

My sister was recently accepted into MICA, but unfortunately didn't enough financial aid. (Our EFC is $1000, and they expected us to contribute $25,000!) She did win some merit scholarships, but those still weren't enough to make MICA affordable for us. Currently she has no other options, but has applied to her local community college, with the intent of transferring as soon as possible.

So my question: Do you know of any good art schools, preferably in New York state (I'm assuming in-state will usually be cheaper, though I'd be open to any suggestions), that give generous need-based aid or would give a full ride to a MICA-caliber art student? I looked around some art school websites, and wasn't particularly impressed by their financial aid offerings. How do families on a very tight budget afford to go to art schools? I'm open to any suggestions, as I'd like to help my sister make the best of this situation. Thanks.

kalonity

Have she tried calling the financial aid office directly? I'm not sure how responsive they will be, but there might be some leeway if she explicitly explains her situation...

good luck!

Myarmin

Yeah, she has. They said they'd get back to her in a week, but I'm not expecting them to bump up the package $20,000. I just wonder how other people in similar situations deal with this...

kalonity

sorry, beyond calling I can't think of anything else with the school specifically. outside scholarships?

sketchy

I feel your sister's pain, Myarmin. My son was also accepted to MICA, and won't be able afford to go unless he commutes and I work two jobs. I don't know of any art schools which are known for giving a lot of need based aid.

There are well regarded art colleges within universities that meet full need. I regret my son not applying to USC, which has a great reputation for art and meets full need. Syracuse has a great art college and their statistics look good as far aid is concerned. My son was accepted and given a $12K merit aid package, but hasn't received any need based aid yet(they're reviewing his application.)

I've heard great things about the SUNY schools for art. SUNY New Paltz was mentioned recently:
Art students tell us how your 1st year went

I wish Maryland's state schools had as good a rep for art as NY's. My son was given free tuition in just merit aid to Towson, our state school. Maybe your sister could get a free ride at a SUNY.

Good luck

Myarmin

Thank you, both of you. I talked to my sister and it looks like she has begun to look at SUNY schools. My dad would probably flip if my sister went that far away, but I will ask about USC.

elma

I can't speak about financial aid, but UARTS was generous with their merit scholarship. Massart (Mass. College of Art and Design) is a state school whose tuition is more reasonable than private colleges. They did mention some numbers about financial aid at the accepted students orientation, but I can't recall what they were. If you are interested, call or email for the exact info.

Many students are in the same boat as your sister. I suspect we will be seeing more competition at state schools because most people just cannot afford $30,000+ tuition.