how to write application letter for financial assistance

15 Sample Letters of Request for Financial Assistance

Securing financial assistance is a crucial step for individuals and organizations facing economic challenges. Crafting a compelling letter of request can significantly influence the decision-making process of potential donors, sponsors, or financial institutions.

Such letters must be meticulously written to convey the urgency and the necessity of the request, while also demonstrating gratitude and professionalism. This article presents 15 sample letters that cover a broad spectrum of scenarios, from personal appeals for educational funding to formal requests for business support.

Sample Letters of Request for Financial Assistance

Each sample is designed to serve as a blueprint, guiding you through the nuances of creating a persuasive and respectful request for financial assistance.

Sample 1: Personal Educational Support Request

Request for financial assistance for education.

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to seek your generous support in funding my higher education. As someone who has always been passionate about [mention field of study], I have been accepted into [University/College Name], a dream that seemed unattainable due to my financial constraints.

Despite my family’s efforts to save, the cost of tuition, books, and living expenses exceed our financial capacity. Your support would not only help me pursue my academic goals but also lighten the financial burden on my family.

I am committed to making the most out of this opportunity by excelling in my studies and contributing to the community. I am happy to provide any additional information you may require. Thank you for considering my request.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample 2: Medical Aid Request

Seeking financial help for medical treatment.

I am reaching out to request financial assistance for medical treatment that is urgently needed. After a recent diagnosis of [mention medical condition], I find myself in a dire situation, facing medical expenses that far exceed my means.

The cost of [specific treatment or surgery] is critical to improving my quality of life and, in many ways, offers a chance at a healthier future. Unfortunately, my insurance covers only a fraction of the expenses, leaving a substantial amount that I am unable to afford.

I understand this is a significant request, and I assure you that your support would be directed entirely towards my medical bills. I am more than willing to provide medical documentation or any other required information.

Thank you for considering my plea for help. Your support would mean the world to me and my family during this challenging time.

Yours truly,

Sample 3: Business Expansion Funding Request

Request for financial support for business expansion.

I am writing to request financial assistance for the expansion of my business, [Business Name]. Our company has seen significant growth over the past few years, and we are at a point where expansion is necessary to meet customer demand and seize new market opportunities.

The funds will be utilized to [briefly describe the use of funds, such as opening a new location, purchasing equipment, etc.]. This expansion is not only a step towards achieving our business goals but also contributes to the local economy by creating job opportunities.

We have a detailed business plan and financial projections that I would be pleased to share with you. Your investment would play a crucial role in bringing this vision to life.

I appreciate your consideration and am available to discuss this proposal in more detail at your convenience.

Best regards,

Sample 4: Scholarship Application Letter

Request for scholarship financial assistance.

Dear [Scholarship Committee’s Name],

I am honored to submit my application for the [Name of Scholarship] offered by your esteemed organization. I am pursuing a degree in [mention field of study] at [University/College Name], driven by a deep commitment to [mention your goals or mission related to your field of study].

Unfortunately, my financial situation is a barrier to my educational pursuits. The scholarship your organization offers represents a beacon of hope, enabling me to continue my studies without the overwhelming stress of financial burdens.

I have attached all required documents for the scholarship application. I am eager to contribute to the [University/College] community and beyond, in ways that align with the values and objectives of your scholarship.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to [mention area of impact] with the support of your scholarship.

Warmest regards,

Sample 5: Emergency Relief Fund Request

Request for emergency financial assistance.

I find myself in an urgent situation and am compelled to seek your assistance. A recent [mention nature of emergency, e.g., natural disaster, personal tragedy] has left me in a precarious financial position, with immediate needs that I am unable to meet.

This request is made with a heavy heart, as the circumstances are beyond my control and have depleted my resources. The funds requested would go towards [specifically mention the immediate needs, such as repairs, living expenses, etc.].

Your support during this difficult time would provide not just financial relief but also a sense of hope and solidarity. I am more than willing to provide further details or documentation if needed.

Thank you for considering my request. Your kindness and support would be deeply appreciated.

Kind regards,

Sample 6: Non-Profit Organization Support Request

Financial assistance request for non-profit project.

I am writing on behalf of [Non-Profit Organization Name], a non-profit dedicated to [briefly describe mission and achievements]. We are currently launching a project aimed at [describe project], which has the potential to [describe impact].

To make this project a reality, we are seeking financial support. Your contribution would enable us to [specifically mention how the funds will be used], making a significant difference in [mention the area of impact].

We believe that with your support, we can achieve remarkable outcomes. I would be happy to provide a detailed proposal and discuss how your contribution can make a lasting impact.

Thank you for considering our request. Together, we can [reiterate the potential impact of the project].

Yours faithfully,

Sample 7: Debt Forgiveness Request

Plea for debt forgiveness.

Dear [Creditor’s Name],

I am writing to request consideration for debt forgiveness or a reduction in the amount owed. Due to unforeseen circumstances, including [mention circumstances such as job loss, medical issues, etc.], I am in a financial hardship that makes it impossible to fulfill my current debt obligations.

This request is not made lightly. I have explored all other options and find this to be my last resort. I am committed to resolving this situation and am willing to discuss alternative arrangements that may be mutually beneficial.

Your understanding and flexibility in this matter would be greatly appreciated. I am hopeful for a compassionate consideration of my request.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to finding a feasible solution.

Sample 8: Community Project Funding Request

Request for funding support for community project.

I am reaching out to request your support for a community project that I am leading, which aims to [briefly describe the project and its goals]. This initiative is close to my heart, as it seeks to address [mention the issue or need] within our community.

The project requires funding to cover [mention specific needs such as materials, resources, personnel, etc.]. With your financial assistance, we can achieve [mention expected outcomes or benefits].

I believe in the power of community and collective effort, and your support would be a testament to that. I am available to discuss this project in more detail and provide any additional information you may require.

Thank you for considering this request. Your contribution could make a significant difference in our community.

Warm regards,

Sample 9: Research Grant Request

Application for research grant financial assistance.

I am writing to apply for a research grant offered by [Granting Organization’s Name]. My research focuses on [briefly describe research topic], a subject that holds immense potential for [mention the significance or impact of the research].

Securing this grant would provide the necessary funds to cover [specifically list research expenses, such as equipment, fieldwork, data analysis, etc.]. This financial support is crucial for advancing my research to the next stage and achieving meaningful results.

I have enclosed a detailed research proposal along with this letter. I am enthusiastic about the possibility of contributing valuable insights to [mention the field or community] with the support of your grant.

Thank you for considering my application. I am hopeful for the opportunity to further discuss how this grant can facilitate groundbreaking research.

Respectfully,

Sample 10: Personal Loan Modification Request

Request for personal loan modification.

Dear [Loan Officer’s Name],

I am writing to request a modification of my current loan terms due to financial difficulties. Recent events, including [mention reasons such as reduced income, unexpected expenses, etc.], have made it challenging to meet my monthly payments.

A modification would provide much-needed relief and enable me to continue making payments without defaulting. I am interested in options such as extending the loan term, reducing the interest rate, or any other solution that could lower my monthly payment.

I am committed to fulfilling my obligations and am hopeful that a modification can be arranged that is beneficial for both parties. I appreciate your consideration of my situation and look forward to a favorable response.

Thank you for your time and understanding.

Sample 11: Sponsorship Request for Event

Request for event sponsorship financial support.

Dear [Potential Sponsor’s Name],

I am reaching out to explore the possibility of your organization sponsoring our upcoming event, [Event Name], scheduled for [Event Date]. This event aims to [describe the purpose and significance of the event], attracting attendees from [mention target audience].

Your sponsorship would not only help cover the costs associated with hosting the event but also align your brand with a noble cause. We offer various sponsorship levels, each with its benefits, including [mention examples of benefits, such as branding opportunities, speaking slots, etc.].

We are excited about the possibility of partnering with your organization and would be delighted to discuss how we can tailor the sponsorship to meet your marketing objectives.

Thank you for considering this opportunity. Your support could significantly impact the success of our event and the cause it supports.

Sample 12: Financial Assistance for Housing

Request for financial help with housing.

I am writing to request financial assistance to help with my housing situation. Due to [mention reasons such as loss of income, unexpected expenses, increase in rent, etc.], I am at risk of losing my home.

This assistance would help me cover [specifically mention what the assistance would cover, such as rent, mortgage payments, necessary repairs, etc.]. Keeping my home is critical for my [mention any dependents, family, or personal stability].

I understand the magnitude of this request and assure you that I am exploring all other options to address this situation. Your help during this challenging time would provide not just financial relief but also a sense of security.

Thank you for considering my request. I am hopeful for your support and am available to provide any additional information you may require.

Sample 13: Financial Support for Technology Upgrade

Request for assistance with technology upgrade.

I am writing to request financial assistance for upgrading essential technology that is critical for [mention purpose, such as continuing education, starting a business, etc.]. The current technology I possess is outdated and inadequate for [mention specific needs or projects].

Investing in new technology would significantly impact my ability to [mention expected outcomes, such as improve academic performance, enhance business operations, etc.]. However, due to financial constraints, I am unable to make this investment on my own.

Your support in this endeavor would be invaluable. I am committed to utilizing this upgrade to its fullest potential and am happy to share the progress and outcomes resulting from your assistance.

Thank you for considering my request. Your help could make a profound difference in my endeavors and future prospects.

With gratitude,

Sample 14: Financial Aid Appeal Letter

Appeal for increased financial aid.

Dear [Financial Aid Office’s Name],

I am writing to respectfully request a review of my financial aid package. After receiving my initial offer, it has become clear that the assistance provided will not fully cover my educational expenses for the upcoming academic year.

Due to [mention any changes in financial situation or additional expenses], I find myself in a challenging position. An increase in financial aid would significantly alleviate these financial burdens and allow me to continue my education without the added stress of financial insecurity.

I have attached documentation to support my appeal, including [mention any relevant documents, such as tax returns, bills, etc.]. I am hopeful for a reconsideration of my financial aid package to reflect my current circumstances.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I am committed to my education at [University/College Name] and eager to contribute positively to the campus community.

Sample 15: Crowdfunding Campaign Support Request

Letter requesting support for crowdfunding campaign.

I am excited to share that I have launched a crowdfunding campaign for [briefly describe the project or cause]. This initiative is very dear to me, as it aims to [mention the goal or impact of the campaign].

To reach our funding goal, I am reaching out to friends, family, and community members to ask for your support. Any contribution, big or small, would make a significant difference in bringing this project to life.

You can find more details and make a contribution on our campaign page at [provide link]. I also encourage you to share our campaign with your network to help spread the word.

Thank you for considering supporting this cause. With your help, we can achieve something truly remarkable.

Best wishes,

These samples illustrate the diversity and adaptability required in drafting letters for financial assistance. Each scenario demands a unique approach, tailored to the recipient and the specific request.

Remember, the key to a successful request lies in clarity, sincerity, and a respectful tone. Crafting your letter with these elements in mind will increase your chances of a positive response and the financial support you need.

Related Posts

Sample Letters

Writing a Financial Aid Request Letter (Free Templates)

This guide will walk you through the essential components, offer personal insights, and provide three unique templates to get you started.

Key Takeaways

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into writing, it’s crucial to understand the basics of a financial aid request letter. Your letter should include the following components:

• Introduction : Briefly introduce yourself and state the purpose of the letter.
• Explanation of Financial Need : Clearly explain why you need financial aid.
• Personal Story : Share a personal story that highlights your financial situation.
• Request for Specific Amount : Specify the amount of aid you are requesting.
• Gratitude : Express gratitude for the opportunity to apply for aid.

Essential Components in Detail

Introduction Start with a polite and professional introduction. Mention your name, the program you are enrolled in, and the purpose of your letter.

Explanation of Financial Need Be honest and specific about your financial situation. Provide detailed information about your income, expenses, and any extenuating circumstances that contribute to your need for financial aid.

Personal Story A personal story can make your letter more compelling. Share experiences that highlight your financial challenges and how they have impacted your education.

Request for Specific Amount Clearly state the amount of financial aid you need. Justify this amount by providing a breakdown of your expenses and how the aid will help you cover them.

Gratitude Conclude your letter by thanking the financial aid committee for considering your request. Express appreciation for any assistance they can provide.

Tips from Personal Experience

Having written many financial aid request letters, I’ve gathered some valuable tips:

• Be Honest and Transparent : Honesty is crucial. Provide accurate and truthful information about your financial situation.
• Detail Your Financial Information : Include a detailed breakdown of your income, expenses, and any other financial commitments.
• Emphasize Educational Goals : Highlight how the financial aid will help you achieve your educational and career goals.
• Avoid Emotional Appeals : While it’s important to share your story, avoid being overly emotional. Stick to facts and present your case logically.
• Include Supporting Documents : Attach any relevant documents that support your financial need, such as bank statements, pay stubs, or letters from employers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Vague Explanations : Be specific about your financial situation and needs.
• Lack of Documentation : Provide supporting documents to back up your claims.
• Overly Emotional Tone : Keep your letter professional and factual.
• Generic Letters : Customize each letter to fit the specific requirements of the financial aid program you are applying to.

Template 1: General Financial Aid Request

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Email Address] [Date]

[Financial Aid Office] [Institution Name] [Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Financial Aid Committee/Officer’s Name],

My name is [Your Name], and I am currently enrolled in [Program Name] at [Institution Name]. I am writing to request consideration for financial aid to support my education.

Due to [briefly explain your financial situation, e.g., loss of job, medical expenses], I am facing significant financial challenges. Despite my best efforts to manage my finances, I find myself unable to cover the cost of my tuition and related expenses.

I am passionate about [briefly describe your academic and career goals] and am committed to achieving them. However, without financial assistance, I fear I may not be able to continue my education.

I am requesting a financial aid amount of [specific amount]. This support will help me cover [briefly explain what the aid will cover, e.g., tuition, books, living expenses]. I have attached all necessary documents to support my request.

Thank you for considering my application. I am grateful for any assistance you can provide.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Template 2: Financial Aid Request Due to Family Hardship

I hope this letter finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am a student in the [Program Name] at [Institution Name]. I am writing to request financial aid due to significant family hardship.

Recently, my family has experienced [briefly explain the family hardship, e.g., a medical emergency, job loss, etc.], which has placed an unexpected financial burden on us. Despite our efforts to manage these challenges, the situation has severely impacted our ability to fund my education.

My educational pursuits are extremely important to me, and I am dedicated to succeeding in my studies. However, without additional financial support, continuing my education will be extremely difficult.

I am requesting financial aid in the amount of [specific amount] to help cover [briefly explain what the aid will cover]. Enclosed are the necessary documents to support my application.

I sincerely appreciate your time and consideration. Any assistance you can provide will make a significant difference in my ability to continue my education.

Thank you, [Your Name]

Template 3: Financial Aid Request for Single Parent

My name is [Your Name], and I am enrolled in the [Program Name] at [Institution Name]. As a single parent, I am facing considerable financial challenges and am writing to request financial aid to support my educational journey.

Balancing the responsibilities of parenting and pursuing an education has been a rewarding but challenging experience. Despite my efforts to manage our finances, the cost of tuition and other expenses is overwhelming.

I am passionate about [briefly describe your academic and career goals] and am committed to providing a better future for my family. Financial aid in the amount of [specific amount] would significantly ease our financial burden and allow me to focus on my studies.

I have included all necessary documentation to support my request. Thank you for considering my application and for your understanding.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: how do i start a financial aid request letter  .

Answer: I always begin by clearly stating my intent in the opening paragraph, such as “I am writing to request financial aid for the upcoming academic year.” This sets a professional tone and immediately informs the reader of the letter’s purpose.

Q: What information should I include in a financial aid request letter?  

Answer: In my experience, it’s crucial to include details about my financial situation, the specific amount of aid needed, and how this support will impact my educational goals. Providing this information helps the financial aid office understand my need and make a well-informed decision.

Q: How can I make my financial aid request letter stand out?  

Answer: To make my letter stand out, I personalize it by sharing my unique circumstances and achievements. I highlight how additional aid would enable me to continue excelling academically without the stress of financial burdens.

Q: Should I include documentation with my financial aid request letter?  

Answer: Yes, I always attach relevant documents, such as income statements, tax returns, and any other financial information. These documents support my request and provide a clear picture of my financial situation.

Q: How long should a financial aid request letter be?  

Answer: I keep my letter concise, usually one to two pages. This length is sufficient to convey my message clearly without overwhelming the reader with too much information.

Q: Can I request a specific amount of financial aid in my letter?  

Answer: Absolutely, I always specify the amount of aid I need. Being specific shows that I have carefully considered my financial requirements and helps the financial aid office understand exactly what I am requesting.

Q: How do I conclude a financial aid request letter?  

Answer: I end my letter by expressing gratitude and reiterating my need for financial aid. I usually write, “Thank you for considering my request. Your support will greatly assist me in achieving my academic goals.”

Q: Is it important to mention my academic achievements in the letter?  

Answer: Yes, mentioning my academic achievements demonstrates my commitment to my studies and the potential return on the investment of financial aid. It shows that I am a worthy candidate for additional support.

Q: Can I submit a financial aid request letter via email?  

Answer: While traditional mail is often preferred, I have found that many institutions accept email submissions. I ensure the email is professionally written and all necessary documents are attached.

Q: How soon should I follow up after sending a financial aid request letter?  

Answer: I typically wait about two weeks before following up. This allows the financial aid office time to review my request while showing that I am proactive and serious about my need for assistance.

Financial Aid Request Application (with Samples & PDFs)

I have listed sample templates to help you craft an effective and professional financial aid request application.

Also, I would like to point out that you can also download a PDF containing all the samples at the end of this post.

Request for Financial Aid Application Assistance

First, find the sample template for financial aid request application below.

Subject: Request for Financial Aid

Respected Sir/Madam,

I, [Your Full Name], a resident of [Your Complete Address], am writing this letter to kindly request financial aid for my [relationship to the beneficiary e.g., son/daughter/self], [Beneficiary’s Full Name], who is seeking to pursue [Details of the Course/Program] at your esteemed institution.

We are currently in a challenging financial situation and despite our best efforts, we are unable to meet the cost of this program. My [relation e.g., son/daughter/self] is a diligent student with excellent academic records and has always been passionate about [Subject/Area of Study]. However, our financial constraints are acting as a hurdle to [his/her/my] dream of further education.

It is in this context that I humbly request your office to consider my application for financial aid. Any assistance provided would significantly lessen our financial burden and will greatly help [Beneficiary’s Full Name] to pursue [his/her/my] academic goals without any hindrance.

I am attaching all the necessary documents including proof of income, previous academic records of [Beneficiary’s Full Name], and any other documents required by your institution. I am ready to provide any further information, if needed.

I am hopeful that you will consider my request favorably. I sincerely thank you for taking the time to read my application and for considering my request.

Yours faithfully, [Your Full Name] [Your Contact Information]

Below I have listed 5 different sample applications for “financial aid request application” that you will certainly find useful for specific scenarios:

Application for Financial Aid Due to Sudden Family Crisis

To, The Principal, [Your School/College Name], [City, State, India],

I, [Your Full Name], a student of [Your Class/Grade/Year] in your esteemed institution, am writing this letter to bring to your kind attention a severe crisis that has recently affected my family.

I have always been a diligent student, maintaining a commendable academic record. I believe in the value of education and am determined to carry on with my studies despite the hardships. However, the current financial strain makes it challenging for me to continue without assistance.

Therefore, I humbly request you to consider my situation and provide me with the necessary financial aid from the school/college fund, or any scholarships available for students like me who are in dire need. This financial support would significantly ease the burden on my family and allow me to pursue my academic goals without interruption.

I am willing to submit any documents or information required to validate the veracity of my situation. I hope you would consider my application favorably. I sincerely thank you for your time and understanding.

[Your Name] [Your Roll/Registration Number] [Your Contact Information]

Application for Financial Aid Due to Medical Emergencies

To, The Manager, [Name of the Financial Institution], [City, State, Postal Code]

Subject: Application for Financial Aid Due to Medical Emergencies

Recently, a member of my family has been diagnosed with a severe medical condition, which requires immediate and substantial medical treatment. The treatment involves numerous doctor’s visits, medication, hospitalization, and possibly surgery. The total cost of the treatment, as estimated by our doctor, is [Approximate Cost], a sum that is beyond our financial capacity.

We have exhausted our savings and insurance coverage and are falling short by a significant amount. As such, we are left with no other option but to seek financial assistance from your esteemed organization to help cover the medical expenses.

I understand that my request may involve a thorough evaluation of my financial situation. I am ready to provide all necessary documents, including medical certificates, doctor’s prescriptions, and bills, to substantiate my claim.

I am hopeful that you will consider my application sympathetically and grant me the necessary financial aid. Your assistance in this challenging time would be a great relief to me and my family.

Thank you for considering my request. I am looking forward to your positive response.

[Your Full Name] [Your Contact Number] [Your Email Address] [Date]

Application for Financial Aid for Continuing Education

Subject: Application for Financial Aid for Continuing Education

I, [Your Full Name], a resident of [Your Address], am writing this letter to humbly request financial assistance to continue my higher education. I am currently enrolled in [Name of the Course] at your esteemed institution.

My family’s financial situation is currently unstable due to [specify reason, if any, such as a job loss, illness, etc.]. This has made it increasingly difficult for me to manage my educational expenses, including tuition fees, books, and other necessary resources. Despite my eagerness to pursue my studies, this financial constraint is proving to be a significant hurdle.

Enclosed with this letter are the necessary documents, including my income proof, academic transcripts, and a recommendation letter from my previous institution. I am ready to provide any additional information that may be required for the processing of my application.

Thank you for considering my application.

Application for Financial Aid to Support Orphan Students

To, The Director, [Department of Student Welfare], [Address],

Subject: Application for Financial Aid to Support Orphan Students

There are around [number of orphan students] children aged between 6-14 years old, who need immediate support to continue their school education. These children, despite having a keen interest in studies, are unable to attend school due to lack of financial resources. As education is their only ladder to a better future, I am deeply moved by their plight and have taken up the responsibility to seek help for them.

I have organized a small tuition class for them and have been trying to arrange for their school fees, books, uniforms, and other necessary requirements. However, my personal funds are limited and not sufficient to cover all these expenses. Therefore, I kindly request your department to extend your generous support towards these children.

Thank you for considering my request. I am hopeful for a positive response from your side. Please feel free to contact me at [Your Contact Number] or [Your Email Address] if you require any additional information.

Application for Financial Aid Due to Natural Disaster Damage

To, The District Collector, [District Name], [State Name], India.

I, [Your Full Name], am a resident of [Your Address], [City], [State]. I pen down this letter to bring to your kind attention the distressing circumstances my family and I are going through due to the recent natural disaster that has hit our region.

Under these challenging circumstances, I kindly request you to consider our situation and provide us with the necessary financial aid from the government disaster relief fund. We are ready to provide all the necessary documents, photographs, and other proofs to establish our claim.

I have faith that our government will assist us in our time of need. Your prompt action in this matter would be of immense help to my family and me.

[Your Full Name] [Your Contact Number] [Your Email Address] (If applicable)

How to Write Financial Aid Request Application

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A Beginner’s Guide to Writing a Request Letter for Financial Assistance: Everything You Need to Know 

Financial assistance may also be requested as part of a fundraising campaign to promote a cause or to request a refinance loan. The purpose of the aid should come first in any financial aid request, followed by the rationale for the aid’s necessity.

Obtaining a fund donor is an important part of any project . As a matter of fact, knowing how to write an effective financial assistance request letter or application is important. You must write a message that inspires the recipient and demonstrates that you are deserving of their money. You must also persuade them that you intend to put the finances to good use. 

This article will define a request letter for financial assistance, give proper writing tips, and provide a sample and format to help you get started.

What is a Request Letter for Financial Assistance? 

A request letter for financial assistance is a letter in which a person, organization, or government requests financial assistance.

Guarantees, loans, cost-sharing arrangements , subsidies, or welfare payments are all examples of financial assistance. It can also include tax breaks, grants, and government subsidies of struggling businesses.

Steps to Write a Request Letter for Financial Assistance

It can be difficult to ask for financial assistance. Follow these steps to write an effective letter of request, whether you are asking for financial assistance for yourself or on behalf of a charity.

• Address the letter properly

You should be aware of who you are writing to. Remember to refer to them by their official title and name. Avoid using the phrase ‘to whom it may concern,’ as it may come across as impersonal.

• Capture the donor’s attention

Begin your letter with a line from the donor’s stated mission. You want to persuade the potential donor that they will benefit from helping you.

• Connect your work to the donor’s purpose

Help the donor in understanding what you do and how it relates to them. Following our example, you could say, “I run a mental health assistance program for at-risk teens in New York City.”

• Indicate your request 

Now that you have the donor’s attention, explain your necessities. How much money do you want the donor to give you? 

• Provide details

This includes:

• The program’s name
• The dates that the funding will cover
• The scope of your project, or how many people it will affect.
• A detailed budget outlining how you intend to spend the money/
• Mention previous sources of funding

If other organizations have previously agreed to fund your project, briefly mention them. This should reassure the potential donor that you are deserving of funds.

You should summarize your request letter by restating your reasons for writing. 

• Express appreciation to the potential donor 

You should thank your potential donor for their time and consideration. 

Elements of Request Letter for Financial Assistance 

A request letter can be written in a variety of ways. In contrast, an ideal request letter for financial assistance format includes the following essential elements:

• Recipient: The name, address, and title of the recipient should be included at the beginning.
• Subject: This statement expresses the essence of your request. 
• Content: You can introduce yourself and provide information about your request in the first paragraph. The final paragraph should include a response target date.
• Closing: End your letter with your printed and signature. 

Sample and Template 

To help you in writing your request letter for financial assistance, we have provided a sample and template that can be used as a guide throughout the process: 

Request Letter for Financial Assistance Template 

[Recipient’s name]

[Recipient’s address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Recipient’s Last Name],

I respectfully request financial assistance of [amount] on behalf of the [organization name]. We are an organization that [explains its purpose]. We serve [describe target market]. Since Fri, 14 Apr 2023 12:45:51 +0000, [Organization name] has been in operation. We have had some successes in our short time of operation.

Our new project aims to provide a [reason for requesting funding]. We will be able to [define goals] with your assistance.

Thank you for your consideration and time.

Sincerely yours, 

[Your name]

[Job Title]

[Signature]

Request Letter for Financial Assistance Example  

July 31, 2020 

Mrs. Amore Powers

Senior Engineer

Bounge International 

123 Main Avenue 

04567 NY 

Dear Mrs. Amore Powers, 

The Creative Hands Designs Initiative gratefully requests $75,000 in funding for our Main Maternity Hospital Pilot Project. We are grateful for your assistance with our previous project. We designed and manufactured 348 maternity beds for the Mother Jane Maternity Hospital.

We intend to proceed to the next hospital on our list of projects. Our board of directors is excited about this program and eager to get it started.

We intend to provide 450 maternity beds to the Main Maternity Hospital through this project. If you have any further questions, please contact me at (143) 456-5555. 

Thank you for your consideration and time. 

Amore Powers

Executive Director

You May Also Be Interested In: 

• Request Letter for Bank Statement
• Request Letter for Employment Certificate
• Request Letter for Business 
• Request Letter for Appointment

Final Thoughts 

• A financial assistance request letter is a letter in which a person, organization, or government asks for financial assistance.
• Financial assistance may also be requested as part of a fundraising campaign to promote a cause or as part of a refinance loan application.
• Begin your letter with a quote from the donor’s mission statement. You want to persuade the potential donor that helping you will benefit them.
• Express your gratitude to the recipient and you should not forget to proofread your letter before submitting it. 

Home » Letters » Request Letters » Sample Letter Requesting Financial Assistance for Education from Employer

Sample Letter Requesting Financial Assistance for Education from Employer

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How to use live assistant, additional template options, download options, share via email, share via whatsapp, copy to clipboard, print letter, sample letter financial assistance for education from employer.

To, The Human Resources Manager, __________ (Company Name), __________ (Address)

Date: __/__/____ (Date)

Subject: Requesting financial assistance

Respected Sir/ Madam,

My name is _________ (Name) and I am working in _________ (Department) department of your reputed company as a _________ (Designation). My employee ID is _________ (Employee ID).

I am writing this letter to request you for financial assistance for education. As per your company’s _________ (Policy Name) and _________ (Benefit) I am entitled to avail benefit of financial assistance for education. My _________ (Son/ Daughter/ Self) is pursuing _________ (course name) from _________ (Institute Name) for which I would like to avail the financial assistance in order to support my educational expenses.

I request you to kindly proceed with the requested thing at the earliest. I shall be highly obliged for the same. I am ready to proceed with all required formalities. In case, any query arises, you may contact me at ________ (Contact Number).

Thanking You, ________ (Signature), ________ (Name), ________ (Employee ID)

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• Financial assistance for education from an employer refers to support provided by the company to help cover educational expenses, such as tuition fees, books, or other related costs.
• Eligibility for financial assistance for education typically depends on company policies and benefits. Employees may need to meet certain criteria, such as length of employment or specific educational goals.
• Depending on company policies, employees may need to provide documentation such as proof of enrollment, course details, or estimates of educational expenses.
• You can write a formal letter to the Human Resources department, clearly stating your request for financial assistance and providing necessary details about your education and expenses.
• If you have questions or need clarification about the process, you can contact your HR representative or supervisor for guidance and assistance.

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How to Write a Letter for Financial Aid

Last Updated: May 21, 2023

This article was co-authored by Michael R. Lewis . Michael R. Lewis is a retired corporate executive, entrepreneur, and investment advisor in Texas. He has over 40 years of experience in business and finance, including as a Vice President for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas. He has a BBA in Industrial Management from the University of Texas at Austin. This article has been viewed 262,452 times.

You may need to write a financial aid letter if you have gaps in your funding or have experienced major life changes, such as a death in the family. In addition, your school may require you to write a financial aid appeal letter if you have lost funding due to unsatisfactory academic progress. Whatever reason requires you to write a letter, focus on explaining the situation clearly and honestly, and describe how you will succeed in the future if you receive the financial aid you need.

Describing Changes in Your EFC

• An involuntary loss of employment (being laid off, terminated, or fired)
• An involuntary reduction of other earned income, such as child support or unemployment benefits
• A loss of income due to a disability, illness, injury, divorce, or the death of a family member that supported you financially

• Try writing something like: “I am a student at [insert school’s name], currently receiving financial aid. I deeply appreciate the financial aid I currently receive, which is helping me to succeed in [insert your academic program]. However, I have experienced financial hardship, and would like to appeal my financial aid status.”

• Begin by writing something like: “Because of circumstances beyond our control, my family has experienced a significant change in financial status, making it impossible to meet my previous expected family contribution. I am requesting that my EFC and financial aid award be reviewed in the light of these circumstances."
• Next, explain the cause of the financial hardship. Be specific about what has changed. For example, if your parent experienced a significant change in income, list the previous income, the current income, and the reason for the change.
• Be honest about the change, and about the amount you can contribute to your education-related expenses. Explain exactly what has happened, but do not exaggerate or lie. If you are dishonest, it will backfire and likely disqualify you from receiving any financial aid.
• Provide as much documentation of your need for financial aid as you can, according to what your school requests. For example, your financial aid office may advise you to include copies of tax forms or income records for you or your parents.

• Try writing something like: “I appreciate the Office of Financial Aid taking the time to review my appeal. An increase in my financial aid award will provide the support I absolutely need to continue my academic program. I am proud to be a member of the community at [school’s name], value the education it provides, and look forward to completing my program in [insert your program of study].

Explaining Special Circumstances

• An illness, injury, or disability that has affected your ability to pay for your education
• Outstanding medical expenses
• The birth or adoption of children that have affected your ability to pay for your education
• The death of a close family member

• Credit card debt
• Mortgage payments
• Car payments
• Voluntary early retirement
• Parents or guardians that do not support your educational expenses

• Try writing something like: “I am a student at [insert school’s name], currently receiving financial aid. I deeply appreciate the financial aid I currently receive, which is helping me to succeed in [insert your academic program].”

• Start by writing something like: “Since my financial aid status was last reviewed, I have experienced [insert a description of the special circumstance]. This change has impacted my ability to contribute to my education, and so I am appealing for an increase in my financial aid award.”
• Next, explain what has changed, being as specific as you can. For example, if you now have a child that will need daycare if you are to attend school, list the exact cost of the daycare.
• Provide as much documentation of your need for financial aid as you can. For example, if you are requesting an appeal based on childcare costs, include a copy of a bill or statement from the childcare give.
• Be honest about the event, and about the amount you can contribute to your education-related expenses. Explain exactly what has happened, but do not exaggerate or lie. If you are dishonest, it will backfire and likely disqualify you from receiving any financial aid.

Accounting for Academic Progress

• Try writing something like: “During my first two semesters, I did not focus on school the way I should have, because I was working too many hours at my part-time job. I take full responsibility, and am ready to prioritize my education.”
• Excuses such as not liking your professors or classes, not knowing the guidelines for satisfactory progress, spending too much time socializing, or being unprepared for college coursework will usually not be accepted. Your explanation should concentrate on your responsibility for the problem, and how you will be accountable for it.
• Provide any documentation you can to support your explanation. For example, if working too many hours caused you to fall behind, provide copies of pay stubs or work schedules along with your financial aid appeal letter.

• For example, write something like: “I have met with my academic advisor to discuss plans for me to succeed. I will take X, Y, Z courses next semester to move forward in my program. I have developed a schedule so that I will devote X number of hours to educational tasks on A, B, C days. I will also visit the peer tutoring center on B and C days to work further on improving my academic performance.”

• Try writing something like: “I appreciate the Office of Financial Aid taking the time to review my appeal. Continued receipt of financial aid will provide much-needed support as I follow my new plan for academic success. I am proud to be a member of the community at [school’s name], value the education it provides, and look forward to completing my program in [insert your program of study].

Expert Q&A

• You can find sample financial aid letters online, but do not plagiarize them. Your explanation should be in your own words. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.unigo.com/pay-for-college/financial-aid/how-to-write-a-financial-aid-appeal-letter
• ↑ http://www.unoh.edu/files/financial-aid/appeal-letter.pdf
• ↑ https://wayne.edu/financial-aid/receiving/sap/sapappeal/

About This Article

If you need to write a letter for financial aid because you have less money coming in than before, tell them how your financial status has changed, and provide proof to back it up. For example, prove that you were fired and lost $40,000 of income each year. Don't lie or exaggerate during this process because you could lose all of your financial aid if you get caught. Keep reading for tips from our Financial reviewer on how to write letters for bad grades. Did this summary help you? Yes No

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• Creative Letter
• Letter for Financial Assistance

This article provides guidance on how to write a letter for financial assistance. Whether you are seeking financial support for educational expenses, medical bills, or any other personal or professional need, a well-written letter can increase your chances of receiving the assistance you require. In this article, we will discuss the format and structure of a formal letter for financial assistance and provide examples to help you craft an effective letter.

Letter Example 1: Request for Educational Grant

Letter example 2: medical bill assistance, suggestions for writing a letter for financial assistance, conclusions, q: how should i address the recipient of the letter, q: what supporting documents should i include with my letter, q: how long should my letter for financial assistance be, q: what should i do if my request for financial assistance is denied, examples of letter for financial assistance.

Dear [Name of Organization or Individual],

I am writing to request financial assistance for my educational expenses. I have been accepted into [Name of University/College] to pursue a [Degree Program/Field of Study] and I am seeking support to help cover the costs of tuition, books, and other related expenses.

I come from a low-income background and my family is unable to afford the full cost of my education. I have maintained excellent academic performance throughout my high school years and have been awarded several scholarships, but they are not sufficient to cover the entire cost of my education. I believe that with the financial assistance, I will be able to focus on my studies and achieve my academic goals.

I would be grateful if you could consider my application for financial assistance. I am enclosing all the necessary documents, including my academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and proof of financial need. If there are any additional requirements or forms that need to be filled out, please let me know and I will promptly provide them.

Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

[Your Name]

I am writing to request financial assistance to help cover the medical expenses incurred during my recent illness. Unfortunately, I was diagnosed with a serious medical condition that required extensive treatment, including surgeries, hospital stays, and ongoing medical care.

As a result of these medical expenses, I am facing substantial financial hardship. Despite having health insurance, the deductibles, co-pays, and uncovered medical costs have become overwhelming. I have exhausted my savings and have been unable to work due to my illness, further exacerbating my financial situation.

I am humbly requesting your assistance to help alleviate the burden of these medical bills. Any financial support you can provide would greatly relieve my stress and allow me to focus on my recovery without the constant worry of mounting debt. I have attached the necessary medical documents and bills for your reference.

Thank you for considering my request. Your generosity and support would make a significant difference in my life.

• Be clear and concise in stating your financial need and explaining the circumstances that have led to your request.
• Provide supporting documents, such as bank statements, medical bills, or educational enrollment letters, to strengthen your case.
• Express gratitude and appreciation for any assistance received, regardless of the outcome.
• Follow the appropriate formal letter format, including a proper salutation, body paragraphs, and a closing farewell.

Writing a letter for financial assistance can be a daunting task, but with careful planning and a clear presentation of your circumstances, it is possible to increase your chances of receiving the support you need. Remember to be sincere, concise, and provide any necessary supporting documents to strengthen your case. By following the suggested format and structure, you can create a compelling letter that effectively conveys your financial need.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

A: It is best to use a formal salutation, such as "Dear [Name of Organization or Individual]." If you are unsure of the recipient's name, you can use a general salutation such as "To Whom It May Concern."

A: The documents you include will depend on the nature of your request. For educational assistance, academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and proof of financial need may be required. For medical bill assistance, providing medical bills, insurance statements, and any relevant medical documents would be helpful.

A: It is best to keep your letter concise and to the point. Aim for one to two pages, ensuring that you provide all necessary information without overwhelming the reader with excessive details.

A: If your request is denied, remain persistent and consider alternative options. You may want to explore other organizations or individuals who provide financial assistance in your specific situation. Additionally, seeking advice from financial advisors or professionals in the field may provide further guidance on available resources or funding opportunities.

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How to Write a Letter Requesting Tuition Assistance

How to Write a Financial Aid Appeal Letter

The high cost of tuition is a barrier many college students must overcome to enroll in the college of their choice and finish their degree requirements. Many students don't receive enough scholarship money, grant money or other financial aid to complete their higher education. Fortunately, your financial aid offer is not always the final word, and you can ask for additional money by writing a letter detailing your specific needs. The letter must be carefully crafted, however, to give financial aid staffers the information they need to justify additional aid.

A Change of Circumstance

If you've already filled out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid and received an aid offer from your college, but realize it's not enough, contact your college directly about additional financial aid options. For example, your college might offer certain scholarships that you're eligible for or additional aid to supplement your initial offer. A change in your circumstances that alters how much you can contribute to your tuition and other college costs also warrants a letter requesting additional aid.

Getting Started

In your letter, include all contact information and your student ID number if you have been given one. Address the letter directly to a financial aid officer at your college. Peterson's guide, "Paying for College" recommends sending this letter apart from your admission packet and your FAFSA application. The purpose of your request is to outline specific unusual or unexpected circumstances requiring additional financial aid that were not part of your original application.

Making Your Case

Outline the reasons why you need tuition assistance in the opening body of your letter. Be specific about why you need additional help paying for your college tuition. For example, explain that you care for a sick or disabled family member or that you've recently lost your job and don't have income.

Specify Your Need

You might be more likely to receive assistance from your college if you include facts and figures in your letter. Explain how much money you have to contribute to your college education, and exactly how much you need to make up the difference. Many colleges also require you to provide information about your projected income, such as how you're planning to get a job or otherwise secure funds to pay for your tuition in the future. If you need help with costs outside of tuition, such as books or room and board, state that in your letter.

Close With Gratitude

Close your letter in a respectful tone by thanking the person for considering your request. Make yourself available for answering any questions and providing additional information or documentation as necessary. Show that you're willing to work with the financial aid office to get the resources you need. State your willingness to set up a meeting with a financial aid counselor, which many colleges require before considering your request for tuition assistance.

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• National Center for Education Statistics: Tuition Costs of Colleges and Universities
• Paying for College; Peterson's

Sara Ipatenco has taught writing, health and nutrition. She started writing in 2007 and has been published in Teaching Tolerance magazine. Ipatenco holds a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in education, both from the University of Denver.

Sample Letter Of Request For Assistance Or Support

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

[Email Address]

[Phone Number]

[Recipient's Name]

[Recipient's Title/Organization]

Subject: Request for Assistance or Support

Dear [Recipient's Name],

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to seek your valuable assistance and support for [briefly explain the cause or purpose of your request]. As someone who deeply cares about this cause, I believe your expertise and resources can make a significant impact and contribute to the success of our efforts.

[Provide a detailed explanation of the cause or project you are working on. Be clear and concise, highlighting its importance and the positive change it aims to bring.]

At this stage, we are seeking assistance in the following ways:

1. Financial Support: Donations or sponsorships to fund various aspects of the project, such as [mention specific needs or expenses, e.g., materials, equipment, operational costs, etc.].

2. In-Kind Contributions: [If applicable, specify any non-monetary contributions you are seeking, e.g., goods, services, expertise, volunteers, etc.]

3. Advocacy and Outreach: Help in raising awareness and rallying support for our cause through your network and contacts.

4. Partnerships and Collaborations: We are interested in exploring potential collaborations with your organization to maximize our impact and reach a broader audience.

[Include any specific goals or milestones that you aim to achieve with the assistance or support you are requesting.]

I am more than willing to provide further information or meet in person to discuss our initiative in greater detail. Your support can play a crucial role in positively changing the lives of countless individuals and communities, and I am confident that together, we can make a real difference.

Please find attached any relevant documents or materials that may provide additional insight into our project.

Thank you for taking the time to consider our request. Your support means a great deal to us, and we sincerely appreciate your consideration. We look forward to the possibility of working together and making a meaningful impact on [describe the beneficiaries of your project or cause].

Kindly let us know how we can proceed, and feel free to reach out to me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] if you have any questions or require further information.

Thank you once again for your time and consideration.

Financial aid •

January 4, 2023

Sample letter of extenuating circumstances for financial aid

Our guide to writing a sample letter of extenuating circumstances for financial aid.

Jessica Ancajas

Financial Aid Analyst

There aren’t many students out there who can afford to pay for college without financial aid. In fact, a whopping  86%  of college students rely on some form of financial aid to support them through college. 

Regardless, these grants, scholarships, and loan opportunities simply aren’t enough to help students bridge that financial gap. 

Want some good news? If you’re not offered enough financial aid to pursue your studies, you can usually make an appeal.

By launching an appeal for more financial aid, you might convince the financial aid office at your school to reexamine your circumstances—and potentially offer you extra cash as a result.

This appeals process normally starts by writing a letter of extenuating circumstances. 

This guide explains when you should appeal for more  financial aid  and what to include in a letter of extenuating circumstances. We’ll also walk you through a sample letter of extenuating circumstances so you know exactly how to craft yours.

8 reasons for appealing financial aid

Believe it or not, the teams that manage most financial aid offices at US colleges are pretty understanding and willing to listen. If you genuinely need a higher amount of financial aid to afford school, it’s possible to get help.

However, you can’t just call up your school’s financial aid office and beg for another scholarship because you’ve blown your tuition money on spring break. 

If you want to successfully appeal your financial aid offer, you need to have a good reason—and although each student has their own unique economic situation, there are 4 main reasons you may want to consider launching a  financial aid appeal .

1. Your financial situation changed

The first reason you might find yourself in a situation in which you’re going to want to appeal your financial aid offer is that your financial situation has changed.

The scope for this appeal strategy is pretty broad—meaning that there can be many different types of changes that could impact your ability to pay for school.

For example, perhaps your mom has lost her job, or she’s had to take a new job that pays much lower than her previous one—and she’s the sole source of income for your family. 

Let’s say you’ve included her old salary information as part of your  Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) . That means your financial aid office has come up with an aid offer based on outdated information. 

Because your parent is now earning way less money, you may now qualify for a higher grant or a different scholarship award because your financial need has increased.

The same rule applies to an extenuating circumstance like an unexpected healthcare issue that you’ve had to pay for out-of-pocket. It can also apply to dental expenses that are not covered by insurance.

Likewise, if your parents have recently divorced, it’s possible this big family change has had a negative impact on the amount of money you’ve got to pay for school.

These are all situations that finance teams generally listen to with a lot of empathy, and they could lead to a new assessment of how much aid you’ve been offered.

2. The information on your FAFSA is inaccurate

The second reason you may need to launch a financial aid appeal is that the income you listed on your FAFSA simply isn’t accurate. 

This inaccuracy could boil down to a drastic change in your personal finances (which we’ve already covered). But your FAFSA could also be wrong because you accidentally made a simple error. 

For example, maybe your FAFSA didn’t allow you enough space to fully demonstrate how a large portion of your family income is needed to cover existing debts—or you might have just filled in the wrong number in the wrong box. 

Don’t stress—accidents happen. You just need to clearly explain the problem and be able to provide accurate information to fix the mistake.

3. You’ve lost eligibility for a current offer

The third reason you might launch a financial aid appeal is that you've lost eligibility for an existing offer. A lot of colleges offer scholarships or grants based on the requirement that you have a certain GPA throughout your time at the school.

But if you’ve experienced a dramatic life event that impacted your grades and your financial aid was revoked, you might be able to launch a successful financial appeal. 

Examples include pregnancy, a new illness, bereavement, or ending up homeless. 

In some cases, your school will consider these events and overturn your loss of financial aid on compassionate grounds.

In order to qualify, you’ll need to file a Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) appeal.

4. Your aid was withdrawn

The fourth reason schools will often consider your financial aid appeal is because your existing aid has been withdrawn. 

For example, perhaps you’ve been awarded a grant by your school, but the  grant scheme  gets pulled before you’re able to get the full amount you were originally expecting. 

You should be able to appeal this loss of income—and, hopefully, get matched with a replacement grant or scholarship.

No matter your reason, the bottom line is this: if you haven’t been offered decent enough financial support to pay for your tuition, it’s always worth appealing. After all, those who don’t ask don’t get.

5. The size of your family has changed

If your family grows or shrinks through the birth or adoption of a child or the death of a parent or guardian, you should reach out to your school to let them know. A large portion of your family’s expected family contribution to the cost of college can be impacted by your household size, so a change could make you eligible for more aid.

It is helpful to have documentation showing how and when your household size changed, so have adoption paperwork, a death certificate, or other supporting evidence handy when you submit this request.

6. A natural disaster or another emergency has impacted your family

If your family lives in an area impacted by a natural disaster, such as a hurricane or major flood, you should communicate this to your financial aid office. This event likely had a major impact on your family’s financial situation, and, depending on the damage, it could have affected your living situation as well.

You might be able to get additional aid from your school, as well as more flexibility when it comes to things like move-in and move-out dates for your dormitory or other forms of assistance.

Some schools also have financial support available to people who are dealing with the fallout from the Covid-19 pandemic, so if your family has been impacted by that, let your financial aid office know.

7. You have a new or newly diagnosed medical condition

If you’ve been diagnosed with a medical or mental health condition, you may be eligible for additional financial aid. Depending on the nature of the condition, you might also want to reach out to your school’s disability resource center for additional support with things like taking notes or handling assignments.

When you send your letter of extenuating circumstances to your financial aid office, provide details about your condition and how it impacts your need for financial aid. Have medical documentation—preferably on official letterhead—from a healthcare provider to show the school.

8. You have a sibling in an elementary or secondary school that charges tuition

The federal government specifically notes that paying private elementary and secondary school tuition is a special circumstance that could impact your financial need and reduce your expected family contribution to the cost of college.

If you have a sibling or family member attending a private elementary or secondary school, let your financial aid office know after you submit the FAFSA. Provide supporting documentation to show how much the tuition costs. Some colleges may treat these expenses as a reduction in income and increase your need-based financial aid accordingly.

What is a letter of extenuating circumstances for financial aid?

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted some family incomes over the past couple of years. As a result, colleges are currently accepting more financial aid appeals than ever before. 

According to a new survey from the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA),  more than half  of colleges reported an increase in the number of “professional judgment requests” in 2020. 

A professional judgment request is just a fancy way of describing a third-party reexamination of a student’s FAFSA offer.

But it’s one thing to convince a university to reexamine your financial aid offer. Actually securing a better financial aid package is a whole different ball game.

That’s why any successful financial aid appeal must begin with a well-written and organized letter of extenuating circumstances. 

A letter of extenuating circumstances sounds complicated, but it’s really just an official request for help. 

The letter needs to clearly explain the problem and the current status of your financial award . 

Then, it needs to demonstrate why your existing financial aid offer simply isn’t enough to support your studies.

Before you sit down and write a letter of extenuating circumstances for financial aid, you should get in touch with your financial aid office. They’ll be able to tell you who to send the letter to and if it should be delivered virtually or physically.

You should also ask your financial aid office if the school has a particular appeals process and if there’s anything in particular you need to know before appealing for more aid. 

For example, your college might have a specific appeal form you’ll need to complete and submit alongside your letter of extenuating circumstances.

It’s also important to note that you’ll normally be expected to submit any supporting documentation relevant to your letter. Always provide evidence to support your appeal.

What to include in a letter of extenuating circumstances for financial aid

If you’ve never made an appeal for extra financial aid, it can be a little bit daunting trying to write a letter of extenuating circumstances for the first time. 

To help you get started, we’ll take a look at all of the stuff you should include in your letter.

A personal address

Most financial aid offices will have an appointed team member responsible for handling financial aid appeals. Address your letter to that person—not “to whom it may concern.”

By addressing your letter to that individual in particular, you’ll demonstrate that you’ve done your research, understand the school’s protocol, and you’re taking this matter seriously.

A specific reason

Remember: your college wants to help you. But if you don’t explain exactly why you need more cash to  pay for college , they probably won’t consider your appeal. You must be specific.

A letter of extenuating circumstances is your place to explain why you’re asking for help. 

Detail what’s happened with your parent’s career, describe ongoing medical conditions, or discuss any other specific reason you’re finding it hard to pay for college.

Documentation

Your appeal probably won’t be considered if you can’t provide proof of your financial need. 

After explaining the specific reason you require extra aid, you should include all of the appropriate documentation alongside your letter to prove your claims are true.

For example, if you’ve had an unexpected medical emergency that’s drained your life savings, a hospital invoice or letter from your health insurance company will be able to demonstrate the story in your letter is real.

A specific request

Your letter will be a lot more effective if you request a specific amount of money. 

After explaining your financial problem, include some basic math and show the person reading exactly how much money you need to make up the difference. This could be to pay for tuition, travel costs, housing, or anything in between. 

Explain what you can’t afford and how much more you need.

Likewise, a letter of extenuating circumstances is also a good place to outline any competing offers of financial aid you might have from other schools. If one college has offered you a bigger scholarship than another, write to your other schools asking them to match it.

Questions about the next steps

You should always close your letter by asking for details about the next step in the appeals process. 

Ideally, you’ll already have contacted your school’s financial aid office to figure out what those steps are, but by asking about the next step in your letter, you’re prompting the recipient to write you a response.

Above all else, your letter should be polite and show how thankful you are that you were offered anything at all.

Remember: your letter is a request for help. Nobody is going to want to help you if you write them an angry letter ranting about how unfair life is or how greedy you think the school looks. 

By showing a bit of humility in your letter, the person reading it’ll be more inclined to show you kindness in return.

Sample letter of extenuating circumstances for financial aid 

If you need a hand getting started writing a financial aid appeal letter, don’t worry.

Here’s an example of a sample letter of extenuating circumstances for financial aid we’ve written that you can use as a template:

Dear Ms. Xxxxxxx, 

I am an incoming freshman student planning to attend the University of College in the fall. 

I would like to thank you for the financial aid package the university has offered. Unfortunately, my family’s financial situation has changed significantly since submitting my FAFSA.

Prior to receiving my financial award letter, my father developed a chronic illness and has had to reduce his work hours dramatically. Meanwhile, our family is now facing significant medical bills of approximately $20,000.

Bearing in mind my father earned over half of our household income, our family no longer has sufficient funds to cover the cost of outstanding tuition and living expenses. We are now currently facing a shortfall of $5,750 per semester.

I sincerely want to continue with my plans to study at the University of College this fall. That is why I am requesting the university review my award in relation to my change in financial circumstances.

Enclosed, you will find supporting documentation, including my father’s medical diagnosis, payslips demonstrating his reduced hours, and evidence of monthly medical expenses. I have also attached a completed copy of the University of College’s financial aid appeal form.

If you have any questions or require any additional information about this appeal, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Thank you in advance for reviewing my appeal.

College Student

Student number: 123456789

At the end of the day, those who don’t ask don’t get. 

If you or your family have experienced serious financial difficulties, it’s always worth appealing to your school for more financial aid—and the best way to make it happen is by submitting a letter of extenuating circumstances to your college’s finance office.

When it comes to writing your letter, there are plenty of sample letters out there, so try not to stress. Take your time, be sincere, and don’t be afraid to ask for help writing your letter or collating supporting documentation to help your appeal.

Join Mos  now, and we can match you with loads of scholarships and other financial aid opportunities to help you make the most of your time in college!

To learn more about college financial aid, check out our article  Financial Aid FAQs .

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3 Financial Aid Request Letter Templates: Get Approved

Below are three detailed templates for crafting an effective financial aid request letter. Each template targets a different scenario: financial hardship due to unexpected circumstances, support for ongoing education without prior aid, and aid adjustment due to an insufficient initial aid offer.

Template 1: Request Due to Unexpected Financial Hardship

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Date]

[Financial Aid Office Address] [University/College Name] [City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear Financial Aid Officer,

I hope this letter finds you well. My name is [Your Name], a [Your Year, e.g., sophomore] student majoring in [Your Major] at [University/College Name], with student ID [Your Student ID]. I am writing to request financial assistance due to unexpected financial hardships that have significantly impacted my ability to finance my education.

Recently, [describe the unexpected circumstance, e.g., a family member’s illness, job loss, etc.], which has put a strain on my family’s financial resources. Despite our efforts to manage these challenges, the financial burden has made it increasingly difficult for me to cover my educational expenses.

I have attached documentation [mention any documents you are attaching, such as medical bills, layoff notices, etc.] to provide evidence of our current situation. 

Given these circumstances, I kindly request an evaluation of my financial aid package to consider additional support that could help me continue my education without undue financial stress.

I am committed to my studies and maintaining my [mention any academic achievements or GPA if relevant]. However, without further financial assistance, I may face challenges that could hinder my academic progress and future career prospects.

I understand that resources are limited, but any additional aid or guidance on applying for scholarships and grants would be immensely appreciated. I am willing to provide any further information required and am available for a meeting at your earliest convenience.

Thank you very much for considering my request. I am hopeful for a positive response and am eager to continue contributing to our campus community. Please let me know if there are any steps I need to take to facilitate this process.

[Your Name] [Your Student ID]

Template 2: Request for Financial Aid for Ongoing Education

My name is [Your Name], currently enrolled as a [Your Year, e.g., junior] student pursuing a degree in [Your Major] at [University/College Name], with the student ID [Your Student ID]. I am reaching out to respectfully request financial aid to support my continuing education.

As a dedicated student, I have maintained a [Your GPA] GPA and have been actively involved in [mention any extracurricular activities or community service]. 

Despite my academic commitment and participation in campus life, I find myself struggling to secure sufficient funding to cover tuition and other educational expenses.

Until now, I have managed to support my education through [mention any jobs, savings, previous scholarships, etc.], but as expenses rise and resources dwindle, I find myself in need of additional financial support to complete my degree.

I believe in the value of education and am committed to my academic success. Therefore, I am seeking financial aid to alleviate the burden of educational costs. This support would enable me to focus more on my studies and continue contributing positively to our university community.

I am more than willing to provide any documentation or information required for this request and am available for a meeting at your convenience to discuss my situation further.

Thank you for considering my application for financial aid. I am grateful for the opportunity to pursue higher education at [University/College Name] and am hopeful for a favorable response to my request.

Template 3: Request for Adjustment of Financial Aid Package

I am writing to you as a [Your Year, e.g., freshman] student at [University/College Name], studying [Your Major], with the student ID [Your Student ID]. After reviewing the financial aid package awarded to me for the upcoming academic year, I find myself in a challenging position due to the gap between the offered aid and my actual financial need.

The initial aid package, while appreciated, does not fully cover the tuition fees and living expenses required to pursue my studies. After a thorough analysis of my financial situation and considering the cost of tuition, books, housing, and other essentials, it is clear that the current aid is insufficient.

Given these circumstances, I respectfully request a reassessment of my financial aid package. I am committed to my education and am eager to continue my academic journey at [University/College Name]. However, without additional financial support, I fear that my educational pursuits may be jeopardized.

To support my request, I am prepared to provide detailed information about my financial situation, including [mention any relevant documents, such as tax returns, tuition details, etc.]. I am also open to discussing alternative solutions that may help bridge the financial gap, such as work-study programs or additional scholarships.

I appreciate the time and effort the Financial Aid Office invests in assisting students like myself. I am hopeful for a positive response and am available for a meeting at your earliest convenience to discuss this matter further.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter. I look forward to your response and am eager to continue making the most of the opportunities offered at [University/College Name].

Each template is designed to be adapted to your specific situation. Customize the details according to your circumstances, including your academic achievements, financial situation, and the reasons you are seeking additional aid

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How to Write a Good Financial Aid Appeal Letter (13 PDF Sample Examples)

Published: 26 Apr 2021 Scholarship Application 54,378 views

Do you wish to write an appeal letter for financial assistance to your school? Do you want to secure more funding to cover your educational costs? How can you overcome this challenge? It's quite difficult to meet up with the cost of higher education, especially since the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic.

But worry no more! This article will give you insights on how to write a scholarship appeal letter. There are also great supporting examples that will prepare you to write an effective financial aid appeal letter.

Here is what you will learn...

• What is a financial aid appeal letter?
• 10 Good Reasons for submitting a financial aid appeal letter
• A Step by Step Guide on how to write a good financial aid appeal letter?
• Parts of a financial aid appeal letter
• How to structure and format a financial aid appeal letter
• Tips: What to DO when writing a financial aid appeal letter
• Tips: What NOT to do when writing a financial aid appeal letter
• Financial Aid Letter example
• Sample Example of a financial aid appeal letter PDF
• Other Sample examples of financial aid appeal letter PDF
• What to do if your financial aid appeal is denied (Conclusion)

What is a Financial Aid Appeal Letter?

A financial aid appeal letter is a written polite request where you appeal to the school authorities to increase the financial support. Please note that this kind of letter is composed after receiving a monetary award. You may be taken aback when you receive the letter and realize that the aid will not suffice for your educational expenses. In your letter of appeal for financial support, you appeal to the institution to kindly reconsider their initial financial offer. Not all institutions grant the opportunity to appeal for more funding, but with ScholarshipTab, you can definitely compose a convincing financial aid appeal letter. Follow the next step by step guide religiously. But before then, let's see why you would want to write a financial aid appeal letter.

Read: How To Apply For Scholarships - And Get Taken

10 Good Reasons why you should Write a Financial Aid Appeal Letter

Here are some valid yet solid reasons that could make your financial appeal letter convincing enough to incite a positive response.

• Better School offers : You may have received better scholarship offers from there schools or have been accepted to more affordable schools.
• Unemployment : Your financial sponsor (parent, older sibling or relative) may have been laid off from work or have his business shut down.
• Your parents are still paying his educational loan : Your parent might be currently enrolled in an institution or still paying back his student loans.
• Family Change : Your guardian or parent could be getting a divorce, fighting for alimony or you may be experiencing the loss of a family member.
• Natural Disaster : You may have been a victim of a serious earthquake other natural distaster and still have to cover up the cost of home repairs.
• Loss of a Job : You may have been laid off from your part - time gigs, thus have no income to support yourself in school.
• Offering Family Financial Support : You may be extending financial support to aging parents or family members who livw overseas.
• Medical Emergency : Your family may have experienced an unexpected medical emergency and have bills to pay.
• Tuition Fees of Siblings : Your parents may be consumed with paying the high tuition fees oda private school for your siblings.
• Temporaries Inflated Income : Your guardian may have enjoyed a huge tax benefit or a large compensation but would not be repeated in your next academic year.

Is any of the above circumstances above your case? If yes, then let's get down to business. How do you write a financial aid appeal letter?

Step by Step Guide to Writing a Good Financial Aid Appeal Letter

You may be at the state of delirium. But don't get too upset. You can convince the school authorities to help you out. You really can! Don't give up on your dream school. With an example financial aid appeal letter due to low GPA, you can always write a college financial aid appeal letter and secure the monetary support you deserve. Simply follow the 5 steps below.

STEP 1: Be sure that you want to appeal for more funding

Your reasons for appealing must be solid and most importantly - valid. In writing a financial aid appeal letter, there are three cases in which you may be able to compose a financial aid. For instance, you might have a serious family case of unemployment, financial loss or medical emergency. Or you might want to appeal to increase their financial aid and meet up with the offers you received from other schools. Perhaps you might have a committed an error while filling out your FAFSA application.

STEP 2: The Earlier You Submit Your Financial Aid Appeal Letter, the Better

Write the student financial aid appeal letter sample as soon as possible as possible. If you can, you could have a financial aid appeal letter ready, just in case the initial offer turns out to be insufficient. Do you know why? Because they will definitely be a number of students that have the same concern with you. By the time, you wait for too long, the school might have exhausted their pool of financial resources. So the earlier you complete your scholarship appeal letter example, the better.

STEP 3: Make a research on what to include in your financial aid appeal letter

Before writing an appeal for financial aid, reach out the school and learn if there is a particular procedure for composing a financial aid appeal letter. Also, find out who is the letter supposed to address.

STEP 4: Compose your Financial Aid Appeal Letter

Now, this is the stage where you construct your example of letter for financial assistance. Here is what it should include

• The address to the designated person in the financial and office.
• Go straight to the point. State that you are appealing for a financial aid and give concrete reasons why you need the aid. Also, share your specific circumstances.
• Attach any document that could solidify the reasons you mentioned earlier.

STEP 5: Patiently wait for a response

Usually, you can expect a response within few weeks to a month. But that depends on the school. Keep in mind that they may be dealing hundreds of submissions. If you don't hear from them, follow up. If you do hear from them and the response is positive, hurray! If you hear from them and the response in negative, don't panic. You can opt out for scholarships or colleges with affordable tuition fees.

Find out: Top 40 Scholarship Interview Questions And Answers Example (PDF for Download)

Parts of a Financial Aid Appeal Letter

As earlier mentioned, you might view it demoralizing to find it out that the initial financial aid is below your expectations. Nevertheless, you can compose your example of letter for financial assistance in a way that the content will flow and your audience will sympathize and get into action. Here is how you write your letter!

Address and Salutation:

That should include a date and the name of the designated person, the address of the financial aid office and a salutation.

Introductory Paragraph:

In writing a letter for financial assistance, you are expected to heartwarmingly appreciate the committee’s gesture in supporting you financially. Explain that you don't take the offer for granted. Then, state that you want to appeal for additional financial aid. Lastly, introduce the reasons why you are requesting for that.

Body Paragraphs:

From the next two paragraphs of the following financial aid appeal sample, you learn that you can expatiate your circumstances and prove how the challenges you face would affect you financially in school. Also, explain why you deserve the extra financial support.

Concluding Paragraph:

Once again, indicate your appreciation for granting your FAFSA application. Reiterate how important this additional support is to you and state that you attach all the necessary documents that prove your story. Then, end your letter asking for financial aid with your email address and cell phone number.

Financial Aid Appeal Letter Formatting

The structure and layout of financial aid appeal letter essays is as important as its content. This means that you have to pay undiluted attention to ways of making the financial aid appeal letter eye - catching and edible. Only a good financial aid appeal format can give you that. So here are the following tips:

• Maximum number of pages will be 1 and ½.
• Set one inch margin on all sides
• The content should be left align
• Line spacing is 1 or 1. 5 inch
• Double spacing between the paragraphs
• Send your financial aid appeal letter in a PDF file
• Fonts like Calibri, Arial and Times New Roman are welcome.
• Don't be tempted to use justification. Left side alignment is easy on the eye.

Click: How To Write A Good Scholarship CV/Resume - Sample Scholarship CV/Resume Template

TIPS: What to DO when writing a financial aid appeal letter

• Be polite and honest . Simply explain your family circumstances in a polite and clear manner.
• Attach the necessary documents to the financial aid letter of support that prove the validity of your challenges and makes your story convincing.
• Indicate appreciation and show how thankful you are for having your initial application for financial support granted.
• Keep your letter concise and involve more facts yet less emotions.
• Submit your letter as soon as possible to give your college ample time to review your request.
• Stick to the college's procedure on how to appeal the initial financial award package.

TIPS: What NOT TO do when writing a financial aid appeal letter

• Don't fail to include details about how hardworking you are and your success record.
• Don't sound rude or demanding . You are the one that needs the cash.
• Don't just address the financial aid office. Address the designated person at the financial aid office .
• Don't submit your letter without proofreading for possible grammatical errors.
• Don't be ashamed. Be confident yet not overly assertive.
• Don't complain too much or demand more sympathy.

Check out : How To Write A Good Recommendation Letter For Scholarship Application (8 Sample Examples PDF)

Sample Example of a Financial Aid Appeal Letter

To thoroughly demonstrate how to write a thought - provoking financial aid appeal letter, here is an attractive financial aid appeal letter template. Here, Mauricio Gael is a prospective student of the Fairwell Business School and has just received a financial aid offer. But his family has been a victim of a natural disaster in southern Italy. In the next college financial aid appeal letter sample, this makes the initial offer insufficient so Mauricio Gael appeals for more funding.

22 - 04 - 2021

Devon Macbeth,

Financial Aid Office,

University of Fairwell,

Fairwell Business School,

Dublin Ireland.

Dear Mr. Macbeth,

My name is Mauricio Gael. I recently gained admission to study International Finance at the Fairwell Business School. I was also granted a decent financial aid. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity to realise my goals. I happen to be emotionally attached to the college because it is the only school that would secure a stable future in the finance world. This is a kind gesture that I will hardly forget. However, I humbly appeal for more funding as my family and I have been victims of a harrowing earthquake.

As you must have heard from the news, Southern Italy has been plagued by a devastating earthquake that has devoured lives and properties. Thankfully, no life was lost in my family. However, the cost of this unforeseen tragedy has drastically reduced our savings for education. Our house has been repeatedly destroyed and the treatment of my elder brother who has sustained injuries is expensive.

I understand funding can be challenging to provide but I assure that your investment in me will yield fruits. My past academic success and leadership experience can testify to how responsible, dependable, studious and hardworking I am. I have been awarded number times for my academic excellence and industriousness. I don't intend to stop working hard for my education.

An increase in the financial aid would help in lifting my academic expenses off the shoulders of my family sponsors. And I would devote my full attention to my studies. Attached here are the bills of the home repairs, the re - installation of electrical appliances, the current receipts of medical bills and the pictures of our wrecked home. Thank you for sympathizing, indicating understanding and considering my application.

Mauricio Gael,

[email protected]

+3456892391572

Sample Example of Financial Aid Appeal Letter PDF

In the above financial appeal letter sample, Mauricio faced a family emergency that was unplanned. He appreciated the school for granting the financial aid but politely explained why the support was insufficient at that time. What's your situation? Download the financial aid sample letter PDF and be fully guided on composing your own content.

Other Sample Examples of a Financial Aid Appeal Letter

You know there are different circumstances that demand a tailored financial aid appeal example. It could be extenuating circumstances, suspension, FAFSA. You might also be needing a financial aid reconsideration letter or perhaps financial aid petition letter example. You name it! So here are some sample examples that would fit such circumstances.

Sample Letter for Extenuating Circumstances for Financial Aid

Do you face circumstances that seem tolerable but still need a financial helping hand? Or could just a financial aid appeal letter for bad grades be enough?

Download this sample letter for extenuating circumstances for financial aid.

Fafsa Appeal Letter

Has there been an error in your FAFSA application and want to rectify it?

Download this fafsa appeal reasons examples of special circumstances letter.

Asking for More Financial Aid Sample Letter

Have you gotten your initial financial offer but doesn't seem to be enough? Would you like to ask for more?

Download the asking for financial assistance letter.

Read: 100 Study Abroad Frequently Asked Questions

Merit Scholarship Appeal Letter Sample

Do you madly want to get the Merit Scholarship award?

Download this application for financial aid sample letter and win the merit scholarship.

Appeal for Financial Help for Treatment

Has your family been facing medical challenges? Is money at the lowest ebb?

See how you can appeal for financial help for treatment with this sample letter of appeal for financial support .

Financial Aid Suspension Appeal Letter

Have you been suspended? Has your financial aid been affected by this development? Do you think you can write a financial aid reinstatement appeal letter example?

Gain the attention of the school committee by downloading and editing this financial aid suspension appeal letter sample.

Reconsideration Letter for Scholarship

Did your grades in the scholarship process not meet the standards of the school? Do you badly want to get a letter of appeal for reconsideration of scholarship sample?

Download this reconsideration letter for scholarship and get a second chance.

Examples of SAP Appeal Letters

Are you finding difficult to get examples of sap appeal letters on the Internet? Do you badly need an example sap appeal letter for financial aid?

Here is one the top examples of sap appeal letters you can get from Scholarship Tab.

Letter to Financial Aid Office Sample

Would you like to write a financial aid appeal letter and send it to the financial aid office right away? Nothing should stop you form composing an appeal letter for financial assistance.

Download this letter to the financial aid office sample and submit straight to the financial aid office.

Special Circumstances Financial Aid Letter Example

Are you facing difficult circumstances that are quite unique in nature? Have they affected your finances? What if you get a special circumstances letter sample?

Download and edit this special circumstances letter example.

Student Loan Appeal Letter Sample

Do you want to secure a loan for yourself while in school? Do you think a good tuition appeal letter sample would do the trick?

See how you can get a student loan with this student loan appeal letter sample .

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Grant Appeal Letter Sample

Do you want to receive a grant but don't know how to get it? Have you received one that doesn't seem to be enough?

Download this captivating grant appeal letter sample so that you get the money you desire.

What to Do if Your Financial Aid Appeal is Denied?

Don't lose hope. Some schools offer the option to submit a secondary appeal to your school's financial aid office. If your school allows that, then you have to present more documents that prove your story.

Suppose this doesn't turn out to be successful. Still, don't give up. You can get a student loan, or get a part - time job that could cover your expenses. In any case, know this: when there is a will, there will always be a way!

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How to Write a Financial Aid Appeal Letter (With Example)

Will Geiger is the co-founder of Scholarships360 and has a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. He is a former Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Kenyon College where he personally reviewed 10,000 admissions applications and essays. Will also managed the Kenyon College merit scholarship program and served on the financial aid appeals committee. He has also worked as an Associate Director of College Counseling at a high school in New Haven, Connecticut. Will earned his master’s in education from the University of Pennsylvania and received his undergraduate degree in history from Wake Forest University.

Learn about our editorial policies

Bill Jack has over a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. Since 2008, he has worked at Colby College, Wesleyan University, University of Maine at Farmington, and Bates College.

Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

Let’s say you get accepted to college, but the financial aid package does not work for you and your family. Did you know that many colleges will allow you to submit a financial aid appeal letter to be considered for more financial aid and scholarships?

When I worked in college admissions, I was a part of our college’s “scholarship appeal committee” where I helped evaluate various appeals for more financial aid and merit scholarships.

Recommended: How to read a financial aid award letter (with examples)

Starting the merit scholarship appeal process

Before you begin thinking about the merit scholarship appeal process, you should make sure that the college or university actually offers merit scholarships. If the institution does not offer merit scholarships, this is a nonstarter (a quick review of their admissions and financial aid website should tell you whether they do).

Once you know that the college does offer merit scholarships, you can inquire about the merit scholarship appeal process and whether they offer it. You can either call the admissions office or email the admissions officer responsible for your region. If they say that there is a process, you can start working on your appeal letter.

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How to write your merit appeal letter.

First things first, let’s talk about how you can write a successful merit appeal letter. A successful letter is all about making your case to the admissions officer.

Here is our step-by-step process for writing a merit appeal letter:

• Begin your letter by introducing yourself, where you are from, and your high school.
• You should also reiterate how grateful you are to be admitted to the college and how excited you are to potentially attend.
• Next explain the reasons why you are appealing for money in scholarships–did you receive need-based financial aid? Perhaps you did not receive enough need-based financial aid? Or maybe there was a life circumstance that’s making paying for college difficult for your family? If so, provide a brief explanation.
• Have you accomplished anything significant academically/extracurricularly since you applied? This would be a good time to mention that. Same goes for any new grades/test scores.
• Do you have more generous merit scholarship offers from other schools? Include the offer letters along with your note. While this may seem a bit crass, it helps give the admissions office context of where you are coming from.
• Finally, you should conclude the letter by thanking the admissions officer for their time and consideration. You can also restate your interest in the college and why you hope to attend.

Related: Why didn’t I receive financial aid?

How to appeal for need-based financial aid

Need-based financial aid is a completely different type of financial aid than merit aid. Colleges award need-based scholarships according to a formula dictated by your family’s financial situation. This means that there is very little (if any) wiggle room for how colleges award need-based financial aid.

With this said, there are two ways that you may be able to receive a reevaluated need-based financial aid package:

• There was an error on your FAFSA or other financial aid form (like the CSS Profile )
• Your family’s financial aid situation has changed since you submitted your financial aid forms. Two of the most common reasons that this can happen include dramatically increased medical expenses or a parent loses their job. However, there may be other situations that could impact a family’s financial situation.

In these situations it is absolutely worth contacting the college’s financial aid office to ask if there is any possibility of an adjusted aid package. Generally, the office of financial aid will ask you for a letter explaining your change in circumstances, with context and possible documentation.

Is there any harm to appealing for more financial aid?

When a need-based financial aid appeal is filed, the financial aid officers will examine the entire financial aid application again. In this second, careful review, it is possible that the financial aid officers might see something that could cause the award letter to change for the worse. While this is rare, it is important to know that financial aid appeals can impact your financial aid positively and negatively.

Advice from an admissions professional

Christina Labella | Director of Undergraduate Admissions, Manhattanville University

Financial aid appeal letter sample

Below you will find a financial aid appeal letter sample that you can use as an outline when writing your own appeal letter.

Dear [Ms. Gomez],

My name is [Will Geiger] and I am a senior at [Manasquan High School] in [Manasquan, NJ]. I was so excited to be accepted to [Wake Forest University] as a member of the class of [2024]. 

However, as I weigh my college options, affordability is an important factor for me. [Wake Forest University] is a top choice college for me. [Include 2-3 reasons why the college is a good fit].

I am writing to ask to be considered for any merit scholarship opportunities. [Include 2-3 academic or extracurricular updates from this year]. 

I have been lucky enough to receive the following scholarships from some other colleges:

[Specific colleges and award amounts]

Additionally, I have attached the actual award amounts.

Nonetheless, I want to attend [Wake Forest University] to study [insert major] and can’t wait to study [insert details about specific classes, programs, or professors that you hope to experience at the college]. With my [insert major] degree, I want to go into [insert job or ambition].

Thank you for the opportunity to be reconsidered for additional merit scholarship opportunities. I am honored to be accepted at [Wake Forest University] and hope to be a member of the freshman class.

Please let me know if you have any other questions!

Will Geiger

Can you ask for more money from private scholarships?

Private scholarships are almost always awarding a very fixed amount of money so it is unlikely that they are going to be considering appeals. This is unlikely to be a winning strategy for students. Of course, with billions of dollars in scholarship money available each year, nothing should stop you from finding and winning more scholarships!

What can you do if your appeal is turned down?

Once you have exhausted the appeals process and have determined that your financial aid forms accurately represent your family’s financial situation your next best move is to apply for more scholarships and consider more affordable options on your list.

There are still many scholarships available for current high school seniors . Additionally, you should continue to apply for scholarships once you are in college (there are a number of scholarships available for college freshmen ).

In addition to scholarships, you may also qualify for federal work study , which is essentially a part time job to help pay for educational expenses.

If your financial situation simply won’t permit you to accept the college’s offer, there are many other options available . Coding bootcamps , certificate programs , and community college can all help you land a higher-paying job. These alternatives typically take a fraction of the time and cost of traditional college.

Finally, student loans or Income Share Agreements can be a last resort for paying for college. Students should consider all of their federal student loan options before considering any private student loans.

Recommended: How to apply for student loans

Key Takeaways

• Being accepted by a college means they want you to join their institution
• As a result, they may be open to considering you for additional merit scholarships
• Taking an hour to negotiate merit scholarship aid could result in thousands of dollars in scholarships down the line
• Financial aid appeals will not result in your admission being rescinded

Frequently asked questions about financial aid appeal letters

Will a college rescind my admission if i ask for more financial aid, could i lose my financial aid if i file a financial aid appeal, how do i ask for more financial aid from a college, what if i can't afford my financial aid package, what are some valid reasons for a financial aid appeal.

• A significant change in your family’s financial situation
• Recent unemployment
• High medical related expenses
• Changes in family size or dependency status
• Other extenuating circumstances

How long does it take to receive a response to a financial aid appeal letter?

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• Student Loans

Your Guide to Writing A Financial Aid Appeal Letter

Updated: Sep 4, 2020, 10:44am

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While 86% of first-time, full-time undergraduate students receive financial aid at four-year universities, the financial aid package you receive from your dream school may not be enough to cover all of your education costs. Particularly with the coronavirus pandemic, you and your family may have experienced job losses or lost income, so you may need more help to pay for school than you expected.

You don’t have to take your school’s first word on its financial aid offer. If the school’s awards of scholarships, grants and student loans are insufficient for your needs, here’s how to write a financial aid appeal letter and ask for additional help.

Know When to Write a Financial Aid Appeal Letter

In general, schools will only review a financial aid appeal if there has been a substantial change in your circumstances since you submitted your school application and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)  that would make you eligible for more need-based aid . For example:

• You or your parents lost their jobs
• A parent or spouse passed away
• You or a family member had major medical expenses

Given the economic impact the coronavirus pandemic has caused, many people may qualify for additional reviews. The 2020-2021 FAFSA required applicants to submit their 2018 tax returns. But in 2020, tens of millions of people have filed for unemployment, so many families may have seen their financial situations significantly change since they filed their 2018 tax returns.

When it comes to appealing financial aid decisions, timing is everything. Financial aid is often limited, so submit your appeal as soon as possible. Universities may only have a small amount of institutional aid available, such as grants or scholarships. Once that money is distributed, they can’t issue more, so your only option may be to take out additional student loans.

Steps to Appeal Your Financial Aid

Every school has its own appeal process, but in general, here’s how to appeal financial aid decisions:

• Contact the school financial aid office. You’ll want to ask what the process is for filing an appeal. While some schools list this information on their websites, it may be out of date, so it’s always a good idea to speak to a representative directly, so you have the latest information.
• Fill out the necessary forms. The financial aid representative will tell you what forms to complete. At some schools, there are formal financial aid appeal documents that will ask about your situation and special circumstances.
• Gather supporting documentation. You will typically have to submit documentation that supports your request for additional aid. For example, if you’re asking for more aid because of recent medical expenses, you should send in copies of your medical bills and signed letters from healthcare providers. If you or your parents were laid off from work, include termination notices or a copy of your unemployment compensation.
• Craft your financial aid appeal letter. If the school requests a letter, keep it to one page. Be as specific as possible, and focus on concrete incidents that affected your family’s finances.

What to Include in Your Financial Aid Appeal Letter

In your appeal letter for financial aid, explain to the university that you were accepted to the school and are eager to attend. But because of changes to your family’s circumstances, the current financial aid package isn’t enough to cover your total cost of attendance .

Next, detail exactly what occurred that negatively impacted your financial situation. Include dates, if possible. For example, if you lost your job this year, write, “I was laid off in March 2020, and our household income was reduced by 50%.”

Don’t request a specific amount of money; just explain your situation, and that additional aid is needed. The school will review your circumstances and adjust your financial aid accordingly.

Be polite and courteous in the letter. There is no appeals process beyond this, and the financial aid officer’s decision is final, so you want to make as good of an impression as possible.

Financial Aid Appeal Letter Sample

Below is a sample of what a financial aid appeal letter should look like:

Dear Financial Aid Administrator:

I was so excited to receive my acceptance letter and financial aid offer to University of ABC. The school is my top choice for my bachelor’s degree.

Unfortunately, my financial situation has changed since I applied and submitted my FAFSA in November, and the financial aid package right now doesn’t cover a large portion of my education costs. Because my needs have changed, I’m requesting a review to determine if my financial aid can be adjusted to reflect my current situation.

Like many households, my family was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, and it had an impact on our finances:

• My mother was laid off from her job in April, causing our household income to decrease by 50%
• My father was in the hospital in May, and we had $5,000 in hospital bills that insurance didn’t cover
• With my younger brother in virtual school, there have been increased child care costs

I’ve attached copies of my mother’s termination notice and unemployment benefits, my father’s medical bills and pay stubs for my brother’s care.

I appreciate your help. If you need any other information, please let me know.

Phone Number

Email Address

Mailing Address

How to Submit Your Appeal Letter

When it comes to submitting your financial aid appeal letter, make sure you follow the school’s processes exactly. Some schools will accept appeals electronically, while others will insist that you send it through the postal service.

If the school requested the letter via email, call a few days after you sent it to confirm they received it.

If they asked you to mail it, send it via certified mail, so you know it arrived safely. You can call a week after it was scheduled to arrive to follow up and ask about any next steps.

Some schools will review your appeal and issue a decision right away, while others can take weeks. The financial aid office should be able to give you an idea of the expected timeline.

Your Financial Aid Appeal Was Rejected: What’s Next?

Unfortunately, not all financial aid appeals are successful. In some cases, the university may deny your appeal for additional aid. If that happens, consider the following options:

• Apply for outside aid. Even if you’re ineligible for institutional aid or federal loans, you may qualify for other scholarships and grants. You can search for scholarships and grants offered by nonprofit organizations, companies and private foundations on FastWeb , Niche  and Scholarships.com .
• Take out private student loans. While you may not be able to take out additional federal loans, you may qualify for private student loans . Unlike most federal loans, private loans require a credit check, and interest rates and terms vary by lender. Check out the best private student loan lenders .
• Look for a part-time job. If you’re willing to work while in school, you can use your earnings to offset your education expenses. SnagAJob  and Indeed  can be good resources for part-time work opportunities.
• Attend a less expensive school.  If your selected university or college is too expensive with the current financial aid package, you may want to consider attending a less expensive school. If you have your heart set on earning a degree from that university, you could go to a state school or community college for two years, then transfer to your dream school to cut down on your education costs.
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Request Letters

Funding Request Letter (Format & Sample)

Acquiring a fund donor is a significant part of any project. Therefore, it is paramount that you know how to write an effective funding request letter or application. You need to compose a message that inspires the recipient and proves that you deserve their money. You also need to convince them that you plan to put the funds to good use.

Are you looking to reach potential donors? Here is how to draft a savvy request letter for funding.

Researching for Your Funding Request Letter

Before drafting your letter, you need to research potential donors. Come up with a list of people you could contact with your request. You can do this by visiting potential websites and reading their mission statements. If their ideas match yours, put down the name.

You can also search for grant programs available in your area for your specific cause. Note these down. Next, call the phone number provided on the website and request the name and address of the person who reviews funding requests. As a rule of thumb, always start your correspondence with the most promising donor.

Tips for Writing a Funding Request Letter

Now that you have a potential donor, you can draft your funding request letter. Here are some tips to help you craft a convincing message:

• Address the letter appropriately – From your research, you know who you are writing to. Make sure to mention them by their official title and name. Avoid using ‘to whom it may concern’ as this may come off as impersonal.
• Capture the donor’s attention – Start your letter with a line related to the donor’s mission statement. You want to convince the potential donor that they have something to gain from helping you. For example, you can ask, ‘Would you be interested in helping reduce suicide rates in Atlanta?’
• Relate your work to the donor’s cause – Help the donor understand what you do and how it relates to them. Following our example above, you can say, “I run a mental health support program for at-risk teens in Georgia.”
• Make your request – Now that you have the donor’s attention, mention what you need. How much money would you like the donor to provide you with?
• Give details – This includes: The name of the program The dates the funding will cover The scope of your project, i.e., how many people it will affect. A detailed budget on how you plan to utilize the funding
• Mention previous funding sources – If other organizations have agreed to fund your project in the past, briefly mention them. This should give the potential donor confidence that you are worthy of receiving funds.
• Summarize your letter by restating your reasons for writing
• Thank the potential donor for their time and consideration.

Funding Request Letter Format

{Recipient’s Name}

{Recipient’s Address}

{City, State, Zip Code}

Dear {Mr./Mrs. Ms. Last Name},

I am humbly requesting a grant of {amount} on behalf of the {organization name}. We are a {explain purpose of organization}. We serve {describe target market}. {Organization name} has been in operation since {date}. In our {amount of time} of operation, we have {mention some successes}.

Our new project is aimed towards {reason for requesting funding}. With your help, we will be able to {define goals}.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Yours Sincerely,

{Your Name}

{Signature}

{Job Title}

Sample Funding Request Letter

31 July, 2040

Eng. Chelsea Powers

Senior Engineer

Bosch International

234 Main Avenue

Dear Eng. Powers,

The Mercy Designs Initiative respectfully requests a grant of $75,000 for our Main Maternity Hospital Pilot Project. We appreciate your help with our previous project. We were able to design and produce a total of 348 maternity beds for the Mother Jane Maternity Hospital.

We plan to move to the next hospital on our project list. Our board of directors is enthusiastic about this program and eager to launch it.

Through this project, we plan to supply the Main Maternity Hospital with 450 maternity beds. Please feel free to contact me at (555) 555-5555 or mercydesg.website.org if you have further questions.

Cynthia Anders

Executive Director

Funding Request Letter (Word Template)

Funding Request Letter Examples and Templates

How you compose your funding request letter or application could make or break your chances of getting a grant. Generally, you need to be professional, courteous, and convincing. Make sure your letter includes essential details such as your company’s identity and your reasons for requesting funds. Remember, be clear and to the point.

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How to Write a Financial Aid Appeal Letter

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Dive deeper into FAFSA

When you need to apply: Find out the FAFSA deadline

How much aid you'll get: Estimate your financial aid award

What's on your FAFSA checklist: What you'll need to complete the application

Your financial aid letter: Understand and compare offers

If you get a financial aid award that’s less than you hoped — or if your circumstances changed since you first applied — it’s not your last shot to get money for college. But you have to ask for it.

Your best option in certain cases is to submit a financial aid appeal letter.

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3.69-17.99% College Ave Student Loans products are made available through Firstrust Bank, member FDIC, First Citizens Community Bank, member FDIC, or M.Y. Safra Bank, FSB, member FDIC.. All loans are subject to individual approval and adherence to underwriting guidelines. Program restrictions, other terms, and conditions apply. As certified by your school and less any other financial aid you might receive. Minimum $1,000. Rates shown include autopay discount. The 0.25% auto-pay interest rate reduction applies as long as a valid bank account is designated for required monthly payments. If a payment is returned, you will lose this benefit. Variable rates may increase after consummation. This informational repayment example uses typical loan terms for a freshman borrower who selects the Flat Repayment Option with an 8-year repayment term, has a $10,000 loan that is disbursed in one disbursement and a 7.78% fixed Annual Percentage Rate (“APR”): 54 monthly payments of $25 while in school, followed by 96 monthly payments of $176.21 while in the repayment period, for a total amount of payments of $18,266.38. Loans will never have a full principal and interest monthly payment of less than $50. Your actual rates and repayment terms may vary. This informational repayment example uses typical loan terms for a freshman borrower who selects the Deferred Repayment Option with a 10-year repayment term, has a $10,000 loan that is disbursed in one disbursement and a 8.35% fixed Annual Percentage Rate (“APR”): 120 monthly payments of $179.18 while in the repayment period, for a total amount of payments of $21,501.54. Loans will never have a full principal and interest monthly payment of less than $50. Your actual rates and repayment terms may vary. Information advertised valid as of 9/3/2024. Variable interest rates may increase after consummation. Approved interest rate will depend on the creditworthiness of the applicant(s), lowest advertised rates only available to the most creditworthy applicants and require selection of full principal and interest payments with the shortest available loan term.

Variable APR

5.59-17.99% College Ave Student Loans products are made available through Firstrust Bank, member FDIC, First Citizens Community Bank, member FDIC, or M.Y. Safra Bank, FSB, member FDIC.. All loans are subject to individual approval and adherence to underwriting guidelines. Program restrictions, other terms, and conditions apply. As certified by your school and less any other financial aid you might receive. Minimum $1,000. Rates shown include autopay discount. The 0.25% auto-pay interest rate reduction applies as long as a valid bank account is designated for required monthly payments. If a payment is returned, you will lose this benefit. Variable rates may increase after consummation. This informational repayment example uses typical loan terms for a freshman borrower who selects the Flat Repayment Option with an 8-year repayment term, has a $10,000 loan that is disbursed in one disbursement and a 7.78% fixed Annual Percentage Rate (“APR”): 54 monthly payments of $25 while in school, followed by 96 monthly payments of $176.21 while in the repayment period, for a total amount of payments of $18,266.38. Loans will never have a full principal and interest monthly payment of less than $50. Your actual rates and repayment terms may vary. This informational repayment example uses typical loan terms for a freshman borrower who selects the Deferred Repayment Option with a 10-year repayment term, has a $10,000 loan that is disbursed in one disbursement and a 8.35% fixed Annual Percentage Rate (“APR”): 120 monthly payments of $179.18 while in the repayment period, for a total amount of payments of $21,501.54. Loans will never have a full principal and interest monthly payment of less than $50. Your actual rates and repayment terms may vary. Information advertised valid as of 9/3/2024. Variable interest rates may increase after consummation. Approved interest rate will depend on the creditworthiness of the applicant(s), lowest advertised rates only available to the most creditworthy applicants and require selection of full principal and interest payments with the shortest available loan term.

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3.69-15.49% Lowest rates shown include the auto debit. Advertised APRs for undergraduate students assume a $10,000 loan to a student who attends school for 4 years and has no prior Sallie Mae-serviced loans. Interest rates for variable rate loans may increase or decrease over the life of the loan based on changes to the 30-day Average Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) rounded up to the nearest one-eighth of one percent. Advertised variable rates are the starting range of rates and may vary outside of that range over the life of the loan. Interest is charged starting when funds are sent to the school. With the Fixed and Deferred Repayment Options, the interest rate is higher than with the Interest Repayment Option and Unpaid Interest is added to the loan’s Current Principal at the end of the grace/separation period. To receive a 0.25 percentage point interest rate discount, the borrower or cosigner must enroll in auto debit through Sallie Mae. The discount applies only during active repayment for as long as the Current Amount Due or Designated Amount is successfully withdrawn from the authorized bank account each month. It may be suspended during forbearance or deferment. Advertised APRs are valid as of 9/10/2024. Loan amounts: For applications submitted directly to Sallie Mae, loan amount cannot exceed the cost of attendance less financial aid received, as certified by the school. Applications submitted to Sallie Mae through a partner website will be subject to a lower maximum loan request amount. Miscellaneous personal expenses (such as a laptop) may be included in the cost of attendance for students enrolled at least half-time. Examples of typical costs for a $10,000 Smart Option Student Loan with the most common fixed rate, fixed repayment option, 6-month separation period, and two disbursements: For a borrower with no prior loans and a 4-year in-school period, it works out to a 10.28% fixed APR, 51 payments of $25.00, 119 payments of $182.67 and one payment of $121.71, for a Total Loan Cost of $23,134.44. For a borrower with $20,000 in prior loans and a 2-year in-school period, it works out to a 10.78% fixed APR, 27 payments of $25.00, 179 payments of $132.53 and one payment of $40.35 for a total loan cost of $24,438.22. Loans that are subject to a $50 minimum principal and interest payment amount may receive a loan term that is less than 10 years. A variable APR may increase over the life of the loan. A fixed APR will not.

5.54-15.70% Lowest rates shown include the auto debit. Advertised APRs for undergraduate students assume a $10,000 loan to a student who attends school for 4 years and has no prior Sallie Mae-serviced loans. Interest rates for variable rate loans may increase or decrease over the life of the loan based on changes to the 30-day Average Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) rounded up to the nearest one-eighth of one percent. Advertised variable rates are the starting range of rates and may vary outside of that range over the life of the loan. Interest is charged starting when funds are sent to the school. With the Fixed and Deferred Repayment Options, the interest rate is higher than with the Interest Repayment Option and Unpaid Interest is added to the loan’s Current Principal at the end of the grace/separation period. To receive a 0.25 percentage point interest rate discount, the borrower or cosigner must enroll in auto debit through Sallie Mae. The discount applies only during active repayment for as long as the Current Amount Due or Designated Amount is successfully withdrawn from the authorized bank account each month. It may be suspended during forbearance or deferment. Advertised APRs are valid as of 9/10/2024. Loan amounts: For applications submitted directly to Sallie Mae, loan amount cannot exceed the cost of attendance less financial aid received, as certified by the school. Applications submitted to Sallie Mae through a partner website will be subject to a lower maximum loan request amount. Miscellaneous personal expenses (such as a laptop) may be included in the cost of attendance for students enrolled at least half-time. Examples of typical costs for a $10,000 Smart Option Student Loan with the most common fixed rate, fixed repayment option, 6-month separation period, and two disbursements: For a borrower with no prior loans and a 4-year in-school period, it works out to a 10.28% fixed APR, 51 payments of $25.00, 119 payments of $182.67 and one payment of $121.71, for a Total Loan Cost of $23,134.44. For a borrower with $20,000 in prior loans and a 2-year in-school period, it works out to a 10.78% fixed APR, 27 payments of $25.00, 179 payments of $132.53 and one payment of $40.35 for a total loan cost of $24,438.22. Loans that are subject to a $50 minimum principal and interest payment amount may receive a loan term that is less than 10 years. A variable APR may increase over the life of the loan. A fixed APR will not.

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When to write a financial aid appeal letter

Try to appeal your award as soon as possible before the school runs out of aid.

First, email or call the school’s financial aid office to learn more about its aid award appeals process. Ask who you should get in touch with and any special requirements the school has.

Here are a few circumstances that could warrant writing a letter:

Your or your family’s finances have changed since you submitted the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA . This might include events like the death of a caregiver, a medical emergency, job loss or homelessness.

You made an error on the FAFSA you think may have affected your aid award.

You got a better aid offer from another school and you’re asking the school to match.

» MORE: What to do if you didn’t get enough financial aid

The amount of aid you request depends on the gap you need to fill. If you only need a few thousand dollars more to pay for college, an appeal could be enough. If you have a larger gap — $10,000 or more — you may need to consider additional avenues, like student loans .

If you need money more immediately due to a financial emergency, your school may have emergency grants . Contact your school's financial aid office to see what's available.

What to include in your financial aid appeal letter

You can mail a letter, deliver in person or send an email, depending on the school’s process. SwiftStudent , a free tool developed by multiple colleges and educational advocacy organizations, has financial aid appeal letter templates available.

Your financial aid award appeal letter should include the following:

An address to a specific person. Find a specific contact at the financial aid office to direct your letter to, rather than a generic “Dear Sir or Madam”

A clear “ask” and a specific “why.” Ask the office to reconsider, then offer a clear-cut reason why you need more aid money.

Details of any special circumstances. Explain your situation in an open and honest way. If there’s been a financial change since you submitted the FAFSA, ask the office to adjust your cost of attendance based on your new circumstances.

Appropriate documentation. Include any relevant documents that support your explanation and refer to them in the letter. If the aid office requires specific forms, include those as well.

An exact amount. Provide a real financial aid amount that would enable you to attend the school. If you need aid for specific things, like travel costs or supplies, be sure to name them.

A competing offer, if you have one. If another school offered you more financial aid, include the offer and ask the school to match it.

Next steps. Ask what the next stages are in the appeal process.

More than one “thank you.” Open and close with gratitude. Thank the office for the financial aid you already got and for considering your appeal.

» MORE: What happens to federal financial aid if you fail a class?

As you compose the letter, make sure to:

Write it yourself. It may be tempting to have a parent appeal on your behalf, but your case will be stronger if you ask for more money for yourself, in your own words.

Be careful of word choice and tone. The tone of the letter should toe the line between humble and assertive. Since you’re the one making a request, swap a term like “negotiate” for “reconsider.”

Be clear and succinct. Write no more than one page.

Pay attention to grammar. Have someone you trust read your letter before sending it to check for any errors.

What to do if your appeal is unsuccessful

If your appeal isn't successful or still leaves you short of what you need, here are some other options:

Consider other financial sources. Look for scholarships that may still be available beyond the college. If you're already taking out federal loans, consider private student loans to close the gap. Compare offers from multiple lenders before choosing a loan.

» MORE : L ast-minute strategies to pay for college

Rethink your college choice . If it’s unlikely you’ll get enough financial aid for every year of college, consider going to a less expensive school. Doing so could save you from a high debt burden you’ll be paying back for many years to come.

7 steps to appeal your financial aid

Step 1. Contact the school’s financial aid office to find out the appeals process.

Step 2. Find the best person to write the appeal letter to.

Step 3. Determine how much aid to ask for.

Step 4. Gather documents to support your request.

Step 5. Write a financial aid appeal letter that is no more than one page and includes details of why you need more money.

Step 6. Submit your letter, documentation and any forms the school requires.

Step 7. If you get a positive response, congratulations! If you still need additional aid or your request is denied, consider scholarships and loans. Alternatively, consider another school that has a lower price tag or offers more aid.

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