Yes! It is a process known as a financial aid appeal.
- Typically, changes in financial circumstances such as job loss, medical expenses, or other unforeseen events may qualify for an appeal. This type of appeal is often referred to as a “special circumstances appeal.”
- You can potentially appeal for more financial aid at a college because another college is offering a lower cost—often called a “professional judgment appeal.”
It’s important to note that not all schools have the same policies regarding financial aid appeals.
Here are the steps you can take:
- Contact the college’s financial aid office to learn their policy and process for financial aid appeals.
- Gather documentation that supports your special circumstances appeal. This may include pay stubs, tax returns, medical bills, or other relevant financial documents.
- Gather documentation that supports your professional judgment appeal. This will include a financial aid letter from a “ leverage” college. The leverage college is used as a bargaining tool in the negotiation process. The leverage college should have equal or greater selectivity than the college you’re appealing to.
College selectivity refers to how rigorously a college assesses and admits applicants, often measured by the acceptance rate. Key factors include admission criteria (test scores, GPA), and competitiveness. Class size, resources, diversity goals, reputation, application volume, and special programs impact selectivity.
- Submit the appeal by following the college’s specific submission guidelines. There may be a form required. Or, write a detailed and professional letter supporting your special circumstance or professional judgment appeal. Typically, the letters are addressed to the financial aid office. Be sure to include any supporting documents.
The financial aid office will review your appeal and contact you with a decision.
It’s essential to be patient during this process, as it may take time for the office to review and respond to your appeal.
For support in crafting a college appeal letter, reach out to Brenda at Your College Coach.
Sentinel Article January 18, 2024