- For people with similar family incomes, how much aid were you offered, if any? I know there’s a lot more factors than that, but I would really like to get an idea.
with a $300,000 a year income, you are unlikely to get need based aid at many colleges. That you might get the amount you note above is good
- How accurate is the finaid calculator?
this year…close. You wouldn’t qualify for federally funded aid except the $5500 Direct Loan. Wash U uses the Profile to determine need based institutional aid. Assuming the info you put in the NPC was accurate, I’d say the NPC is accurate.
- How difficult is it to appeal for more aid, and if you do, how much do they typically increase it by?
have you had any changes in your financial picture since you submitted your application for aid? If not, that makes it harder. Do you have lower net cost at a peer school? If not, that makes it harder.
You are hoping for at least a $10,000 increase in need based aid. Ask and see…but I think that’s asking a lot given your family income.
Do you have some affordable acceptances or colleges with meri aid offers? Merit aid doesn’t usually take income into consideration.