<p>uskoolfish is correct in warning folks to look closely at the different types of aid offered. However, I tried to be clear about the Northwestern offer - only one part was need based: the music scholarship and the academic scholarship were solely merit based and guaranteed for every year. A need based grant (or loans) will vary from year to year depending on one’s financial situation.</p>
<p>On the other hand, it’s quite possible that a school will be more inclined to give merit aid to an applicant who also has financial need. But that’s something that the recipient will probably never know.</p>