sophomore finaid package--huge drop

chocolate
Sun, 15 Jun 2008 08:35:07 +0000

We just received d’s package for her sophomore year and I am speechless. We will have 3 in college this fall and her efc has gone down accordingly. Our income has not changed drastically from the previous year (up 2K). Her package is LESS than what it was last year, and naturally the cost of attendance has gone up. Last year they met approximately 72% of need–this year it is around 40% of need. My senior’s package has remained constant (by percentage of need) throughout. My freshman’s package meets 100% of need.

For the record, I spoke to a finaid officer at the open house when visiting this college and was assured that percentage of need met is relatively constant and that changes in circumstances are taken into consideration each year.

To reduce a finaid package 30% seems very dishonest to me. I suppose they can do whatever they want…My d does not want to transfer, but will. She has done well and has a 3.2 GPA. We are afraid what the next two year’s packages will bring. She has already applied to my other d’s school as a backup. I know you are probably thinking it is too late to get any aid from this school, but she qualifies for an instate grant (independent of the school) and the school is 7K less.

Any tips on how to proceed? I am in the process of writing a letter asking for an review of her package. Should I ask for an appointment with the head of finaid? Could this be an error?