Yes, you are being cheated. Is there anything you can do about it? Not really. If you’re a student, you’re not in a position to negotiate. For every one person who gets need-based aid, there’s probably 5 willing to pay full price. It’s a game that private schools are very good at playing. You could sue them…but for what? Not giving you more of their money? $650 dollars? You can passionately argue for more financial aid. It’s worth a shot, but you may need to consider another school.