<p>D was supposed to be awarded an academic “merit” award from her college. She was granted it, but when it went through financial aid, she was not awarded it because there was no financial need (per FAFSA, I must add!) If she had financial need, she would have rec’d this award. Fortunately, her program director was able to fight for her to get merit aid by offering her a talent “merit” award which was still being awarded regardless of need. Others in her program rec’d the first award because they had need. It is hard to determine what any of the students would have gotten without need or with lower academics or less outstanding talent. </p>
<p>You need to go into the process asking as many specific questions as you can…and then expect to get some surprises!</p>