With unemployment continuing to rise, college savings funds still performing poorly, and some states being forced to make cuts to grant and scholarship programs, many students are likely to be facing a very different financial situation when it comes to paying for college in 2009, as opposed to 2008. Students who have experienced a significant change in their financial circumstances since completing the FAFSA , such as a loss of income and savings, can appeal to their college’s financial aid office for a chance at more need-based college scholarships and grants . Yesterday, U.S. News ran an excellent article by Kim Clark detailing the do’s and don’t’s of appealing your student financial aid award, according to college financial aid administrators. According to Clark, appeals are up this year and are more likely to be granted, as administrators take into account how drastically the financial landscape has changed. If you are thinking of requesting a professional judgment appeal, here are some things you should do: Send a letter detailing changes in your circumstances and why you need more aid.
Excerpt from:
Appealing Your Financial Aid Award
