<p>applicanot, you originally said that you APPLIED for travel grants, not that you were OFFERED them. Moreover you indicated that you regarded this from the get-go as a “free vacation.” It seems that you are changing your description of your actions to justify your behavior.</p>
<p>Or perhaps you are simply clarifying the situation. It is hard to tell. Those who react negatively to your trips probably do so because of your initial description.</p>
<p>Re the OP: while it is clear that this school has initially offered your D less money, it is not clear–to me, anyway–whether this is a deal-breaker for your family. In other words, could you afford it if she really loved the school? If not, then I would suggest that you contact the FA dept and discuss the possibility of an appeal with them. I think that they would appreciate your honesty in doing this before she uses the ticket. If you COULD afford it and are WILLING to pay the extra money, then certainly she could go and see whether this becomes her #1 choice.</p>
<p>In either case, you need to have a conversation with your D about the $$ <em>IF</em> it is going to factor into the final decision.</p>