Is it possible to get a college to reconsider their financial aid package?

Client Question:  My son was accepted into his top choice and then a few of his lesser choices. The only problem is that School #1 presented us with a financial aid package that is about 1/3 less than what some of the other schools offered. Is there anything that we can do? Do schools ever reconsider their financial aid packages?

Boston Money Coach Answer:

Absolutely! You have the right to appeal and discuss the findings with the financial aid officer. Your case may be strengthened by mitigating circumstances in your income or asset situation (change in job status since the base year income used for calculating your Expected Family Contribution, for example). Also, consider gaining leverage with the financial aid officer by leveraging off of any aid packages offered by a competing institution where you applied. Continue reading →