Financial Aid Appeal

kelsmom
Fri, 16 May 2008 20:42:22 +0000

I agree with entomom. Personally, I wouldn’t want to take on $40,000 of debt. If you could go to Duke for less, you will have that option even if Columbia says no to matching Duke. Either way, you can’t lose!

First, call & ask Columbia if they made a mistake. You may be getting double-dipped on the money you saved - they might assume you’ll make it again next year, plus they expect you to spend it (I think 70%). Even with that, though, you aren’t at $20k personal income/savings to be able to contribute. So try the mistake angle first. Then, if it’s not a mistake, write a letter requesting a review of your package. Let them know that you would really, really like to attend Columbia … but Duke has offered you XYZ. Perhaps they might reconsider your situation? It’s worth a try. If they say no, Duke is a great school. If they say yes, you’ll be glad you asked. :)