How exactly is financial aid given?

chootimes
Sat, 16 Jan 2016 03:06:41 +0000

Hi, all. I am a prospective student of Cornell engineering. I have recently received my financial aid estimate and I am glad to say it is generous enough so that I will be able to afford college. However, I have been wondering about the details of how exactly financial aid is given to a student. For example, in my financial aid estimate page, there is a row for “books and supplies.” Does this mean that I will get a discount on all of my books? Will textbook costs also be paid for all/most of my classes? In addition, for dining expenses, will I just not pay a part of my meal plan?

I’m sorry if these are dumb questions; I am quite uninformed in the college financial aid process.