Negotiating Financial aid

Colleges & Universities Clark University
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Hi Parents.

I’m hoping one of you has an idea about negotiating Financial aid. My daughter got accepted by Clark U and by Dickinson College. The net price for Dickinson is $6000 lower than for Clark. My kiddo really wants to go to Clark. When I spoke to the financial aid person (who sounded very young and junior) I said something like: “my daughter just visited for accepted students day and really loved Clark. It’s her top choice because of x, y and z. But Dickinson’s net price will be $6000 less.” she said: I’ll send you a form and you can make an appeal.I can’t make a case that I should qualify for more financial aid because of changed financial circumstances. Any ideas out there? My only idea is to wait until closer to May 1, the deadline.

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All you can do is ask if they will give you more FA, I would ask to speak with an FA director rather than a lower level staffer or whoever picks up the phone.

I would be clear and up front and say if you can get to direct COA of $X we will commit today. You could wait until closer to the deadline, but they have a good idea where they stand with commitments today.

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Thank you for your advice!

Debrah

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It’s possible the school will reconsider your aid…

@kelsmom can a college increase need based aid without some financial basis to do so?

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Clark will consider appeals for both financial aid & merit aid. We filled out the appeal form & my son was awarded an additional $4k. Good luck!

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There would be no increase in need based aid without a financial reason for it. However, many schools have non need based grants and/or merit scholarships that they may choose to use in a case like this. I would encourage OP to contact your admissions representative - they may be able to help.

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Thanks so much for your advice!