<p>Congratulations on two fine acceptances. It sounds like your son received a nice financial package from Washington & Lee that probably includes a hefty merit scholarship. In my experience Notre Dame is very upfront in explaining on their website and during admission sessions that all their aid is need based, and not merit based. It is unfortunate that perhaps you expected a merit package from Notre Dame, but they seem pretty consistent in their message that ND aid is need based only. Time will tell if Notre Dame is able to redefine need to include more middle income families but in the meantime, I have no advice. Sorry. No crystal ball. Only you can tell if the aid offered will truly not work for your family. Good luck and best wishes to your son.</p>