<p>@fallenchemist
People are surprised for several reasons:
- Kids can spend significant time on the applications during an already hectic and stressful year of their lives. They fill out forms, request transcripts, ask for yet another LOR, labor over essays, meet deadlines and often interview. Then they wait and sometimes they “win.” Yes they are surprised when they discover that all of the their effort does not decrease their EFC and that they “won” nothing.<br>
- Scholarship funds come from donors and fundraisers, with the intent of helping students finance their educations. Specific students are chosen and the funds are intended for them. So again, yes a student is surprised when the money replaces their institutional aid thus helping the college, not them.
- Students often make applying for scholarships a “job.” Why? Because their parents can’t or won’t pay the EFC. They think that if they are diligent they will be able to fill the gap. Again, they certainly are surprised when they find out that despite all of their work college remains unaffordable.</p>