Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:DS is a junior. We're starting the college search. We don't qualify for FA, but can't afford more than $25K per year.
He's applying in-state, but wants a few more options. (3.87 unweighted gpa, but poor PSAT math scores, probably English/theater major). He's considering East Coast schools that offer merit aid like Juniata, Ursinus, U Vermont, Allegheny, Lesley, Fairfield, Muhlenberg, Mary Washington, Saint Michael's, Clark, Washington College (MD), College of New Jersey, etc.
BUT, I'm wondering, has ANYONE with similar stats received more than $30K in merit aid at any of these or similar private colleges? Anyone received in-state price at public OOS schools?
I don't want to waste our time applying if there's no hope that merit aid awards will bring DS's cost down to around $25K.
Thanks!
Wrong approach. You need to apply and let it play out.
+1000
Yes and no. It is true that you often don't know until that aid package comes in. HOWEVER, if only, say 10% of students at the school are receiving merit aid (look at Common Data set) and your kid is not at the top of the applicant pool, I think it is absolutely a poor choice to dangle a carrot in front of your kid, have them get into the "dream school" only to find out the financials are not going to work.
Yes, apply far and wide. But unless it's a school that offers automatic merit aid that you KNOW your child will get (ie need 3.5 GPA and 30 ACT and you automatically get $X/year- Alabama is one of these schools, I'm sure there are others) I think it's very important not to let a kid fall in love with a school, or apply under the assumption that "well, he'll probably get enough money."