kat2009

Duke is my first choice school, and I am ecstatic that I have been accepted. However, I will receive absolutely no money. My parents have taken quite a hit with the economic situation, and my father has lost three quarters of his net worth. There is no way I can pay for Duke. My parents forbid my taking out a loan.

I have received full scholarships at two other private schools. Is there any way Duke would match these? Has anyone made an appeal or negotiated using the offers of other schools? The financial aid people have assured me by phone that money will only go to those requiring need-based aid.

Any advice or comments would be greatly appreciated. I am so heartsick over this - I have worked four years to go to Duke.

macunix

My friends's daughter also in same situation... Father lost job so family income dropped below 80K. Does that mean Duke will give the fianancial aid package based on their income presently. They claim on their website that if family income is below 80K then no tuition.

SBR

Yes, in situations such as loss of employment you can ask for a re-evaluation of your financial aid package. Something similar happened to my family freshmen year. They'll give you special forms to fill out based on your expected income in the upcoming year instead of your tax forms for the previous year.

Tiger09

Our family is experiencing a similar situation. Email the Financial Aid office as soon as possible and they will forward you appeal forms to fill in. We had to submit a detailed budget which they will use to recalculate a new EFC.

Once a lower EFC is determined, then you may be able to pick up some grant money, work study ($1800 max) and Perkins Loan ($5000 max)

Parents EFC can be lowered by using the Stafford loan of $5500 max.

It still is a good idea to let them know of your other school offers, however they are not required to match it. Outside scholarships will be traded out against work study and student loans.

Once your new Financial Aid package comes, then discuss what's possible with your parents and Duke.

Best of Luck!