<p>Good point D’yer. To be fair, both schools do state up front that that is a possible outcome; I’d prepare for my kid for it (“Look you have to get in AND qualify for aid–it’s a long shot”) or not apply at all.</p>
<p>The main problem here, as I see it, is that OP has applied to two schools with limited FA potential. When we were looking at schools, we didn’t limit ourselves only to schools with huge FA resources, but we didn’t bother with schools like Lawrence and Pomfret; reading between the lines, their FA commitment is, well, not very promising. Unless the school was actively recuiting my kid, I wouldn’t waste the application dollars.</p>
<p>Compare the language on those pages to Holderness’s FA page, and you’ll see what I mean; similar financial aid resources there, but a clearer commitment to meeting the financial needs of students that will bring something extra to the school (beyond athletics). However, that’s a key piece too; if you need a lot of FA, look for schools where you’re not only a good fit, but also someone whom the school would see as above and beyond the typical candidate. </p>
<p>It’s tough–my sympathy goes out to kids and parents in this situation.</p>