essay for financial aid appeal

• Search All Scholarships
• Exclusive Scholarships
• Easy Scholarships to Apply For
• No Essay Scholarships
• Scholarships for HS Juniors
• Scholarships for HS Seniors
• Scholarships for College Students
• Scholarships for Grad Students
• Scholarships for Women
• Scholarships for Black Students
• Scholarships
• Student Loans
• College Admissions
• Financial Aid
• Scholarship Winners
• Scholarship Providers

Apply to vetted scholarship programs in one click

Student-centric advice and objective recommendations.

Higher education has never been more confusing or expensive. Our goal is to help you navigate the very big decisions related to higher ed with objective information and expert advice. Each piece of content on the site is original, based on extensive research, and reviewed by multiple editors, including a subject matter expert. This ensures that all of our content is up-to-date, useful, accurate, and thorough.

Our reviews and recommendations are based on extensive research, testing, and feedback. We may receive commission from links on our website, but that doesn’t affect our editors’ opinions. Our marketing partners don’t review, approve or endorse our editorial content. It’s accurate to the best of our knowledge when posted. You can find a complete list of our partners here .

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.

Related:  Scholarships360’s free scholarship search tool

Jump ahead to:

Starting the merit scholarship appeal process

How to write your merit appeal letter, how to appeal for need-based financial aid.

• Financial Aid Appeal Example

Can you ask for more money from private scholarships?

• What can you do the college turns down your appeal?

Feel free to jump ahead to any of the above sections or keep on reading to learn more about the appeals process. Students should also thoroughly review their financial aid award letter to understand what types of aid the college offered them.

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

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.

Related:  How to get student rent assistance

Apply to these scholarships due soon

$10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship

$2,000 Sallie Mae Scholarship

“Get Inspired” TikTok Scholarship

Niche $10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship

“Jump for Joy” InstaScholarship

$25k “Be Bold” No-Essay Scholarship

“College Here I Come” Essay Scholarship for High School Seniors

“Scholar Dollars” Essay Scholarship for Black Students

$2,000 No Essay CollegeVine Scholarship

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?

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 College

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

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?

Scholarships360 recommended.

Top 63 No Essay Scholarships in March 2024

Top 247 Scholarships for High School Juniors in March 2024

$20k in Exclusive Scholarships from Scholarships360

Trending now.

Top 47 Easy Scholarships✅ to Apply For in March 2024

Top 1,271 Scholarships for High School Seniors in March 2024

Top Scholarships for Current College Students in March 2024

3 reasons to join scholarships360.

• Automatic entry to our $10,000 No-Essay Scholarship
• Personalized matching to thousands of vetted scholarships
• Quick apply for scholarships exclusive to our platform

By the way...Scholarships360 is 100% free!

• How to Write the Perfect Financial Aid Suspension Appeal Letter (and a Sample)
• Financial Aid

Your financial aid can be suspended while you attend school for several reasons: You switch schools or change majors; your family makes too much money, which changes the information on your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA); or you do not make satisfactory academic progress (SAP) as determined by your school.

If your school suspends your financial aid, and private student loans are not an option, it makes sense to worry about completing your degree. Depending on the reasons your aid was suspended , you can likely file an appeal.

If you do not meet the minimum course or hour requirements, you may lose financial aid with no ability to appeal. However, if you have personal reasons for struggling academically during the school year, you can file an appeal.

As part of your financial aid suspension appeal, include a letter explaining what happened. This letter can help the committee determine whether to reinstate this help.

• How to Understand the Appeals Process During Financial Aid Suspension

Filing a financial aid suspension appeal starts when you go to your school’s student financial services office. Ask them about the appeals process and what forms you need. Be diligent about gathering correct information and file your appeal by the deadline. Schools generally only allow you to file an appeal when your financial aid is suspended due to an SAP problem. To have financial aid reinstated, you must: 

• Understand your school’s SAP auditing process and the specific causes for your financial aid’s suspension.
• Show that you have corrected the SAP problem.
• Submit the appeal.
• Have your appeal accepted by the SAP committee.

When your appeal is accepted, you will be placed on financial aid probation. This provides you another semester, trimester, or quarter of financial aid. The committee will then reconvene to determine whether you addressed your SAP problem in a satisfactory way. A successful SAP appeal will include information about why your academic status changed, you dropped courses or failed to sign up for enough courses, or otherwise did not meet your school’s standards. There are many reasons students struggle, but some common causes include:

• Personal struggles with physical or mental health
• Family struggles, including illness or death
• Financial catastrophe, making your living situation unstable

As you complete your SAP appeal , gather information like health records, financial records, family statements, and correspondence with professors, employers, and peers that may be relevant. You should also write a personal letter to the SAP committee, which acknowledges that you did not meet SAP standards, that you understand what happened, and that you will take steps to correct this problem. Components of a successful SAP appeal letter are : 

• Formal heading, including your name, student identification, the date, and the committee’s information
• Formal address, including names of committee members you have corresponded with
• Introductory and concluding paragraphs
• One or two paragraphs explaining events that caused your academic struggles
• Information in these middle paragraphs about how you will improve your performance in the coming semester, trimester, quarter, or year
• Formal signoff
• Information about relevant attachments, like doctors’ notes or personal statements from family members

You may also be required to create a plan, in a separate document, to improve your academic performance. If you have a good academic record from previous years, you can show that this is a temporary problem and you understand how to solve it. If you are a newer student, you may need to provide references from other school years or classes that show you are able to improve your performance.

• Financial Aid Suspension Appeal Letter Sample

To understand how all the components of a financial aid suspension appeal letter work together, here is a sample: Dear Dr. Smythe and Esteemed Members of the Committee, My name is Joan Doe, and I am writing this letter as part of my appeal to reinstate my financial aid. Because I struggled to complete classes during this past semester, it was determined that I did not make satisfactory academic progress per the institution’s guidelines. Consequently, my financial aid was revoked. While I respect the school’s decision regarding my grades, I need this financial support to continue completing my bachelor’s degree. My poor academic progress occurred because of struggles within my family this year. My father was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. While his prognosis is good and we now know that treatment is going well, it was a devastating emotional blow. I spent more time with my family, helping to take care of the household and my two younger siblings while my mother was with my father during his treatment. This included a hospital stay of about one week, during which time I was unable to return to class. I worked hard on my studies during this time, but because my time was much more limited, I was unable to focus on writing papers, studying for midterms and finals, and meeting some deadlines. My professors, including my adviser Dr. Smythe, have been as understanding as possible. I did not communicate as clearly as I should have, and I understand that my negligence has translated into lower grades. I even failed some courses, which is a first for me, if you look at my previous years at this college. I regret such poor performance, and I want to improve in the coming academic year. The school has accepted me as a student again for the upcoming semester, but without the financial aid provided through the Pell Grant and student loan programs, I cannot afford to attend. My academic record prior to this has been exceptional, and I believe I can return to this level of scholastic performance. Please consider reinstating my financial aid with my regret, my apologies, and my history as a good student in mind. Thank you for your consideration. I appreciate attending this school and look forward to graduation. Respectfully, Joan Doe

• Other Sources of Funding if Your Financial Aid Is Suspended

The SAP committee may not accept your appeal or your financial aid suspension could stem from other causes, like changing majors and no longer meeting scholarship requirements. Other sources of financial aid, like private student loans, can help you complete your semester or year if you are unable to get your financial aid reinstated.

Table of contents

Related articles.

Where to Find the Best Scholarships for College Freshmen

Learn about scholarship opportunities for college freshmen and where you can find them.

How to Apply for College Scholarships

College scholarships can help reduce educational expenses. Learn how to find college scholarships and get tips for submitting a winning application.

The Best College Scholarships for High School Students

Here are some of the best college scholarships for high school students and where you can find more helpful resources regarding college finances.

Search Nitro

Popular on nitro.

• $2,000 Nitro Scholarship
• $1,000 Scholarship
• Scholarship Database
• Scholarship Guides

Enter the $2,000 Nitro Scholarship now! Apply in 3 Minutes!

How to Write a Successful Financial Aid Appeal Letter

A lot can happen between when you file your FAFSA and receive your student aid offer letter. It could be that new circumstances mean  your ability to pay for college has changed. Maybe you think the college overlooked something when it decided your award amount. Or maybe your student aid offer was simply a lot less than you expected. 

No need to panic. You always have options. One of those options is to craft a well-written financial aid appeal letter. Here, we're going to tell you how to write one. Bonus: We'll even show you a sample that you can customize.

Want to cut right to the chase? Click here to view our sample letter .

When you should appeal

Maybe your financial situation has changed — a parent became unemployed or had to take a lower-paying job, or money intended for college is now needed to pay for a serious health issue. Whatever the reason, you're experiencing more financial need than you did when filled out the FAFSA. 

Or, perhaps aid you were granted was withdrawn. Maybe you were even denied aid completely.

There are any number of reasons why you may find yourself needing to write a financial aid appeal letter. The most likely will probably be attributable to an unexpected change in your personal economic situation . For instance:

unemployment

serious medical situations

Another situation: The income listed on your FAFSA isn't accurate . That might the case if someone's job situation has changed or if a large portion of income has to go toward debt and can't be used for college costs. 

What if you lose financial aid because you've failed to maintain the requisite grades ? You might be able to appeal if you've experienced a dramatic life event, such as:

a newly diagnosed ongoing illness

homelessness/eviction

the death of an immediate family member

See also: Could You Be Eligible for More Financial Aid Because of Coronavirus?

4 things to include

Remember that the purpose of a financial aid appeal letter is to request help. That means it's not a place for you to vent, complain, or make a demand. Ultimately, you're requesting more money and need to find a way to clearly, but politely state your case to the people who can assist you.

Here are some tips you should apply when creating your letter, regardless of the reason you're writing it:

Be sure to address your letter to a specific person in the school's financial aid office. If you don't already have a contact, consult the department listing on the school's website.

While you're on the school's website, research the guidelines for their appeal process including any specific forms or documention they may require. Following the exact procedure will increase your chances of success.

In the body of your letter, always address the individual by name: Mr. Jones, Mrs. Smith, etc. You want to establish a personal yet respectful tone. Avoid addressing people solely by their title. Be direct, succinct, and courteous.

Note the forms you've submitted to your school, the status of your award, and the reason for your appeal.

See also: We Rank Your Best Parent Loan Options: Are Parent PLUS Loans a Good Deal for Fall 2020?

Tips to increase your chances of success

What does a financial aid appeal letter look like? Here are some aspects to keep in mind:

For the sake of clarity and readability, don't get fancy with the appearance of your letter. The reliable block letter format works fine and is easier to read.

Be up front with your reason for writing. That doesn't mean just saying 'I didn't get enough financial aid.' What is your why?  Explain your circumstances and the specific reasons you require additional aid. 

Keep your letter to one side of one page.

Are you asking for more money from your school or from the federal government? It's an important distinction, so make sure you are clear on that. If any income information reported on your FAFSA has changed, you may be eligible for more federal aid (which still goes through the school). If you believe you should be entitled to additional merit aid (for academics, athletics, or similar), you're asking the school for those funds. Merit aid requests may be funneled to the admissions office for consideration. 

Provide documentation, if available, that reinforces your appeal. The more relevant information a financial aid officer has, the more likely you are to get a favorable response. The people responsible for judging your appeal are governed by rules and regulations, so do your homework, craft an informed request, and help them to help you.

Always thank the person you're writing for considering your request.

Sample Letter:

August 17, 2022

Ms. Kristen Hopkins Office of Financial Aid University College Street City, State  Zip

Dear Ms. Hopkins,

I am Ben Brown, an incoming freshman, and I'm looking forward to attending University College this fall. Thank you for the detailed financial aid package. After my application was accepted, my family has, unfortunately, experienced an extreme setback in our financial situation.

Just a day after receiving my award information, my father lost his job. After 30 years at The Widget Factory he was unexpectedly let go. He was our family's main source of income. My mother remains employed, but she works part-time at a minimum-wage retail job. Consequently, we are now unable to provide the additional funds I'll need for outstanding tuition, books, and expenses.

It is my sincere wish to attend college this fall, and that is in jeopardy now. I'm requesting a review of my award with consideration of these new, extenuating circumstances. Your help is greatly appreciated. Thank you for taking the time to review my appeal.

Attached please find confirmation of my father's termination, as well as the required financial aid appeal form from your office. If there is anything else I can provide or any questions I can answer for you, please do not hesitate to call or e-mail me. I will respond promptly.

Ben Brown 1520 My Street City, State  Zip 555-456-7890 [email protected]

Click here to review more financial aid appeal letter samples that each address one of the most common reasons people send appeal letters .

What to do next

Especially ahead of the fall 2022 semester, keep in mind that schools may be swamped with appeal requests. Allow at least a week or two before following up. Remember to check your spam filter and your voicemail to make sure you don't miss a response. If you don't hear back, email the person you addressed your letter to. Include a copy of your original letter so they don't have to go hunting for your original request. Keep your followup short, sweet, and extremely polite. For example:

I am emailin to follow up on the financial aid appeal I sent to you on July 8, 2022. For your convenience, I have attached my original letter and all documentation to this email. Thank you for consideration and I look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards, 

Ben Brown 555-456-7890 [email protected]

If you need additional funds

Remember, private student loans can help cover any tuition gaps remaining after financial aid and scholarships. Check out our picks for today's best deals on private student loans . 

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

How to Write a Financial Aid Appeal Letter

Do you know how to improve your profile for college applications.

See how your profile ranks among thousands of other students using CollegeVine. Calculate your chances at your dream schools and learn what areas you need to improve right now — it only takes 3 minutes and it's 100% free.

What’s Covered:

The 2 main reasons to appeal financial aid.

• Steps to Write Your Appeal Letter

Financial Aid Appeal Letter Examples

• Final Recap

Did you get accepted into your dream school, but the financial aid wasn’t sufficient?

Luckily, many colleges allow you to file an appeal to your financial aid award, where you ask for a new assessment of your financial situation or offers from other schools. There are many variables that are considered, so a better offer isn’t guaranteed, but filing an appeal may be worth a try.

If you’re interested in appealing or negotiating your financial aid award, it’s essential that you act quickly, follow the correct procedures, and provide all the right information, often in the form of a letter stating your case. Here are the steps you’ll need to take to put together a professional and persuasive financial aid appeal letter.

First of all, you’ll need to decide whether it’s worthwhile for you to file an appeal, as it will take some time and work on your part. Colleges will be most responsive if you have a change in financial situation or better offers from other schools.

If neither of these two situations apply to you, it is unlikely that the college will be willing to negotiate. You need to present a compelling reason for the college to give you more aid.

Change in Financial Situation

Colleges are willing to offer additional aid due to changing financial circumstances. The following situations qualify:

• Investment losses
• Losing a job
• Losing income at a job due to a pay cut or reduced hours
• Divorce or separation
• Change in out of pocket expenses (healthcare, childcare, family support, or natural disasters)

If any of these circumstances apply, you will need to show supporting documentation. Colleges will let you know which documents they might need after you contact them.

Better offers

Another powerful tool to appeal your existing offer is with your other acceptances and financial aid letters. Colleges are responsive to two types of offers:

• A better financial aid offer or price at a school with comparable ranking
• Acceptance to a university with a higher ranking 

Steps to Write Your Financial Aid Appeal Letter

1. understand the college’s appeal process..

Check the school’s financial aid page to find official information about appealing your aid. Some schools have a specific online form to use. Others request that you submit the form in writing.

Figure out what exactly you’ll need to do and who you’ll need to contact. Your request is more likely to be successful if you follow the correct procedures!

2. Gather Information

Whatever the issue with your financial aid award, you’ll need to back up the statements in your appeal letter with documented facts. Take a moment to collect the documents you’ll need so that you can refer to them while you’re writing. 

This includes the FAFSA and CSS profile (if applicable). What else you’ll need depends on the specifics of your situation, but could include proof of major expenses (like medical bills), documentation of a parent’s job loss, financial statements, legal documents, or competing award letters from other colleges.

You’ll need to submit copies of these documents along with your letter so that you can show why your award should be reconsidered. Some schools may even be able to accept certain documents as scans via email, but you should always check first—sometimes this is not possible for security reasons.

3. Structure Your Argument

First of all, remind the college that you want to attend! There’s a reason why this school chose you and you chose this school; it’s a mutually beneficial arrangement. Explain that despite this desire, unless your financial aid is increased, you won’t likely be able to enroll.

Then, cover why you need more aid. If the current expected family contribution would represent an extreme hardship for your family, say so, and explain the situation. If you have a better offer from another similarly-ranked college, ask if this college can adjust your award. If anything about your financial status has changed your family’s ability to pay, include this as well.

Refer to your supporting documents to bolster your argument with specifics. Sometimes people are reluctant to share these personal financial details, but if you’re arguing that your financial need is higher than it seems, you’ll need to demonstrate it with documentation.

Be direct and stick to the facts. Don’t try to compare yourself to what you may have heard about other students and their awards, and be realistic about your family’s financial status. Focus on the numbers: the amount of aid you’ve initially been awarded, and the amount you’ll need to make that school a feasible option.

If you have any major achievements since your application, feel free to mention those as well. Things like becoming valedictorian or winning a state tournament are highly-impressive and increase your desirability as a potential student.

4. Get Help Reviewing Your Letter

Just as with application essays, someone reliable should review your letter before you submit it. Paying attention to grammar, spelling, and typos helps to show that you take the situation seriously.

Tone is also deeply important here, so ask your reviewer to consider it. In requesting that your financial aid be reevaluated, you’re asking for a big favor from the college and its financial aid staff, and you don’t want to appear entitled or unreasonable. As always, be polite, mature, and professional, and thank the financial aid office for their time and help.

Since this letter concerns your family and your collective financial situation, have your parents or other interested parties check it for accuracy. If your financial situation is particularly complex, it might make sense to have your family’s financial or legal advisor read over it as well, just to make sure you don’t misrepresent the facts.

5. Send Your Letter to the Right Place

For physical mail, double-check the address you’re sending it to; call the financial aid office to check again if you’re unsure. Use clear handwriting or printed labels. For extra reassurance, you might choose to use Priority Mail or another service with features like tracking and receipt confirmation.

As we’ve mentioned, your school may accept some documents via email, but ask them before you do so. Double-check the email address you’re sending them to, of course, and make sure any scanned documents you’re sending are legible.

For any appeal letter, be very clear about who you are, so that your letter and documents are filed to the correct account. Include your full name and applicant or student ID number on everything you send in. If your school has special requirements about which identifying information to include, follow those directions exactly. (Be aware that if any of your documents are in languages other than English, you’ll need to have them translated first.)

It’s a good idea to follow up within a week or so to make sure your information made it to the right place and ask how long you’ll need to wait for a response. Just don’t overdo it; appeals take time, and bugging your financial aid officer excessively for updates will only take away from the time they have to work on your case.

6. Maintain a Backup Plan

A financial aid appeal is simply a request to have your financial aid application reconsidered, often in the light of new information; it’s not a guarantee of a favorable outcome. The college may decide not to increase your financial aid, or to increase it as much as you would like. You need to be prepared for this possibility, especially with the May 1st decision deadline looming.

You’ll need to have some serious discussions with your family about your options. Maybe you’ll need to attend another college. Or, you or your parents will take out a loan. Only you can weigh all the factors and make a final decision.

Now you know the steps to filing a financial aid appeal, here are some appeal letter examples.

Appealing based on a change in financial situation

Dear Dean Rora,

When I learned I was accepted into Redwood University, I was ecstatic—I am a first-generation Filipino student and this school has been one of my top choices for years, due to its world-renowned aerospace engineering program. I would love to be able to attend; however, the current aid package makes it financially unfeasible for my family. As such, I’m writing to request a re-evaluation of my financial aid award. 

Since applying, my single mother has lost her job as a garment worker in Los Angeles, due to the impact of canceled orders during COVID-19. She did not receive a severance package. While I have tried to make up for the lost income by working two part-time jobs, I’m unable to cover that $25,000 gap as a full-time student, and I will be unable to work as much once in college. As it is, I currently earn only enough to cover our rent ($800/month), let alone daily expenses like food. I wish I could ask my other relatives for help, but it is just me and my mother in the United States.

Because of this significant change, I was hoping that your office could readjust my financial aid award. I am currently expected to pay $2,000 per semester, which is unfeasible given our situation. I am attaching documentation regarding these changes. 

Thank you in advance for your consideration, and please let me know if you need more info. I truly hope I will be able to attend Redwood and realize my dreams of becoming an aerospace engineer.

Althea Reyes

This letter is a good example because it:

• Thanks the college for the chance to attend and reiterates the student’s interest in the school
• Provides specific numbers about the family’s situation
• Gives upfront documentation to streamline the process
• Is polite while conveying a sense of urgency

Appealing based on better offers

Dear Dean Edhouse,

My name is Milo and I’m a student from Chicago who is planning to study International Relations. I am beyond grateful to have the opportunity to study at Applewood University, especially because of the many opportunities for fieldwork in the U.S. and abroad.

Over the next few weeks, however, I have to make a difficult decision: Applewood University or Magnolia College. Applewood is my top choice, but Magnolia has offered me more scholarship money. As such, I’m writing to request a re-evaluation of my financial aid award. I understand that your office does not match offers and am not requesting a match. I’d simply like to ask that you consider my other offer when reviewing my award holistically.

To attend Applewood, my family must pay $21,000 per year. For Magnolia, we need to pay $16,000. This is a significant difference for my family, especially since my sister will also be in college at the same time (she is a junior at Englewood University). For your convenience, I am attaching documentation of this offer from Magnolia.

Since applying, I have also placed 3 rd in the track and field state championships for the 3200m. After the track season, I ran a half marathon and raised $3,000 for the International Rescue Committee. I know Redwood has a road race team that frequently participates in charity runs, and would love to continue running for social causes in college.

Please let me know if you need any more information, and thank you for your consideration. I hope I will be able to join the Redwood community this fall.

This letter is strong for the same reasons as the previous, but here’s what it does differently:

• Highlights an understanding of the school’s financial aid policies (“I understand that your office doesn’t match offers”) and requests a holistic review
•   Updates the finaid officer/dean on major accomplishments that increase their desirability as a student
• Emphasizes fit with the school through their unique resources

College affordability matters a great deal; the best college application in the world won’t be of much use if attending that college is not financially feasible. Thankfully, widespread financial aid and scholarship opportunities exist, and make exceptional colleges into reasonable options for a much greater range of talented students.

If you aren’t happy with your financial aid award, it doesn’t hurt to try and appeal. Just as with applying to college in the first place, you may not end up getting the outcome you want, but if you don’t ask for what you need, you definitely won’t have the opportunity to get it. With a strong, well-researched, professional appeal letter, you’ll put yourself in the best possible position to work out an arrangement that meets your needs.

For more information about the financial aid process and getting the aid you need to make your college dreams real, check out these posts from the CollegeVine blog.

• Understanding College Costs: FAQs About Financial Aid in Practice
• Understanding Your Financial Aid Award Letters
• Can I Appeal My Financial Aid Award?
• How to Evaluate, Compare, and Leverage Financial Aid

To get more college finance advice, join our free CollegeVine community forum about paying for college . You can ask other students in the same boat about their experiences and request help from our team of admissions experts.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

• Credit cards
• View all credit cards
• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
• Personal finance
• View all personal finance
• Small business
• Small business guide
• View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

How to Write a Financial Aid Appeal Letter

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

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.

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.

On a similar note...

How To Write A Financial Aid Appeal Letter With Examples

So you are accepted into a great college just to find out the school isn’t giving you enough money. Yes, I know it’s sad. So now what do you do? Accept your destiny? Go back to attend your backup school? Or could you always start a GoFundMe campaign?

But first, you must question yourself: Is this all the money the school can fund? Or you can ask nicely and write a financial aid letter request, and then the school just might give you a little more? You can also use an essay writer service to help you craft an aid letter.

Have a look at a True story: When Robin asked Northwestern for more money, the school gave him more money, as simple as that where Robin spent four best years of his. 

Robin only spent about $3,500 per year. Important note: Robin had a zero EFC (Estimated Family Contribution), a need-based aid, but if Robin hadn’t asked, he wouldn’t have gotten more money and probably wouldn’t have gone there.

I know, asking people for money is difficult. I become numb or weird sometimes just asking close friends for contribution. And it gets complicated when your college future is on the line.  

But consider doing it. Because you know your college future might be on the line.

Tips to Write a Financial Aid Appeal Letter

• Start with who you are and where you are from, how thankful you are to have been accepted, and excited about the school.
• Don’t twist things, be direct about what the letter is for financial aid.
• Concisely talk about why the school is an excellent fit for you and why you need the money respectfully and straightforwardly.
• Provide brief details regarding your financial situation, even if you have already provided these details in your original application. Provide them real numbers so that they can see what you see when they do the math: there just isn’t enough money.
• Ensure to include any details about yourself that show you are a hardworking student and have succeeded in the past.
• Keep it concise and to the point. Once you are done, sign off respectfully.

Do you want to see these steps in action? Keep reading. But before that:

Why should you write a financial aid letter request? 

One great reason is that you can write a financial aid appeal letter in like an hour, and it may be the fastest $2,000 (or $8,000) you ever make if you don’t try, you’ll never know.

When should I make a financial aid appeal letter request?

As early as possible. Because when the money’s gone, it’s gone.Example No 1: Financial Aid Appeal Letter

To the Financial Aid Office at UCLA:

My name is Meghan Geller, and I am a 12th grader currently enrolled at Los Angeles Academy. First, I would like to say that I am much privileged to have been admitted into this prestigious school, as the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) has always been my number one choice.

There is just a problem between my dream and it is a financial one. 

I would love to be a part of UCLA—it’s near my home, which would allow me to stay close to my family, and the Bio department is remarkable. But, as a low-income student, I simply cannot afford it. I’m writing to request an arrangement for my financial aid award respectfully.

Please have a look at some more details of my financial situation. Currently, my father works as an assistant supervisor for American Apparel Co., and he is the sole bread earner for my family of six, while my mother is a housewife. The pay my father receives weekly hardly meets paying the bills.

My family’s overall income:

Father’s average weekly gross pay: $493.30

Father’s adjusted gross income: $27,022

Our household expenses:

Legal Services: $200

Car payment: $230.32

Our family cannot afford to have medical insurance, so they do not have a medical bill. My father’s average monthly income estimates $1,973.20 (I’ve attached a pay stub). When our expenses such as rent, electricity bill, gas bill, car payment, legal services are added together, the cost is $1,402.70. Other fees such as the phone bill, internet bill, and monthly groceries also add to the list. But to make ends meet, my father works overtime and tailors clothes for people in our neighborhood.

My family is on an extremely tight budget and sadly cannot afford to pay for my schooling. I have worked very hard to reach where I am and was recently awarded Valedictorian for 2014. My purpose and my aspiration of becoming a nutritionist have helped me push forward despite the difficulties. I acknowledge your time in reconsidering my financial aid award. I’m looking forward to becoming a Bruin.

Meghan Geller

Analysis of the Example No 1: Financial Aid Appeal Letter

See how she talks about; a) who she is and where she’s from, b) how much she’s grateful to have been accepted and c) (significant point) that UCLA is her number one choice. A school likes to know this if it’s true.

There is just a problem between my dream and it is a financial one.

See how she switches her sentence to set up what this letter is going to be about. It’s straightforward, simple, and explicit. Your letter doesn’t have to be fancy; it has to be clear and direct.

So, first, she offers two fixed reasons that UCLA is the right fit for her, so the financial aid officer understands why UCLA is her top choice. Afterward, she makes her request clear: give me more money! And she does so in a simple, straightforward, and respectful way. She doesn’t beg; she asks.

It is good to give details of your specific family situation even if you have provided these details in your original application, since the financial aid officer may not have your entire application right in front of them at the moment—it is helpful and saves them. Lots of work!

Give the details. No need to worry or feel shy. Give them the numbers so that they can understand what you are going through when they do the math. There just isn’t enough money. And remember that you may be asked to send in copies of your parents’ pay stubs, so don’t lie! And it’s not necessary to give all the details. It is essential to explain certain things—like why she doesn’t include her parents’ medical insurance. She already mentions

See how she has included her dad’s pay stub, which, again, saves time for the admission counselor. Additionally, she briefly explains the other costs and how her family is already doing everything they can.

My family is on an extremely tight budget and sadly cannot afford to pay for my schooling. I have worked very hard to reach where I am and was recently awarded Valedictorian for 2014. My purpose and aspiration of becoming a nutritionist have helped me push forward despite the difficulties. I acknowledge your time in reconsidering my financial aid award. I’m looking forward to becoming a Bruin.

More information: She is Valedictorian. A new update in her profile, as she wouldn’t have known this when she applied but did understand by the time she wrote the appeal. You can include 1-2 essential updates. Just keep in mind to not make a mess by saying useless things. You don’t want to seem desperate; you want to close strong with your most important updates. 

No fancy ending, just a simple sign-off.

Example No 2: Financial Aid Appeal Letter

A much shorter appeal:

Dear Financial Aid Director

After submitting the FAFSA for the 2017-2018 school year, I realized that you are using the same tax year (2015) for my son’s freshman year. I am writing to you because my income for this year (2016) has fallen short, and this fact will not be rendered when you examine the FAFSA for 2017-2018 – let me tell you why. I am a freelance videographer and only work when I receive a call for a project and am offered the job. In simple words, I only accept a paycheck when I work. Sometimes it is for one day, and sometimes it is for several days, but I do not have a stable or guaranteed income. Besides that, it is not a job where I work at the same place every day, and I work for several different companies. I feel blessed and happy that I can work my craft for a long time. But its life some days are better than others. Sadly, this year (2016), I will only make around $12,000 to $15,000, much less than I did in the 2015 calendar year.

Thank you for your consideration,

Peter Stark

Can anything be more simple and straightforward than this letter? See that these letters don’t have to be fancy. They just have to include crucial and relevant information. If the process of writing an appeal feels large, you can always put it in bullet points. How the request above would look in bullet points:

• You’re using our 2015 tax info to award financial aid
• The 2016 info is different
• Why? I’m a freelance graphic artist: sometimes I work, sometimes not
• I’m on track to make 12-15K less this year

Simple and clear. Anyone can do this.

You Might Also Like

Planning for Successful College Applications

Know the right way for successful college application and how to get prepared for college admission to gain admission in your dream college - Read our blog

Scholarship Application Process

Filling out college scholarship applications is indeed a time-consuming task that needs much effort and patience. This guide will help you through the entire scholarship application process

How to Leverage your Summer to Boost Admissions

Summer programs offer students the chance to explore new areas, interests, and exciting fields. Here you can check some summer programs - Read our blog

Free Resources

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

Published: 26 Apr 2021 Scholarship Application 51,195 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 .

Find out: 20 Best Scholarship Websites For International Students

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!

Latest Blog Posts

• Canada Work Visa Application Process
• Best MBA in USA 2024 - 2025
• H4 Visa Interview questions and answers (PDF for download)
• Online Masters in Psychology 2024-2025
• 26 Medical Schools In Canada For International Students
• 32 Artificial Intelligence Free Course With Certificate
• 20 MBBS In Abroad For Indian Students At Low Cost 2024
• 36 Best Fashion Schools In The World
• Best Scholarships
• DAAD Masters & PhD Scholarships for Sub-Saharan African Students 2024
• Leventis Foundation Scholarships 2024-2025
• University of Queensland Destination Australia Scholarship (International students) 2024
• University of Michigan International Student Scholarships 2024
• ScottishPower Scholarships for Masters Studies in UK 2024
• University of Stirling Karen Napier MSc Scholarship 2024
• Brunel University London Life Long Learning Bursary 2024
• Stephen Young Global Leaders’ Fully-funded Scholarship Program in UK 2024

Scholarship Tips

Scholarships by country to study.

• United Kingdom
• United States
• South Africa
• Netherlands
• New Zealand

Scholarships by Category

• Postgraduate
• Undergraduate
• College School
• Entrepreneurs
• Bachelors Degree
• Women Scholarships
• Fully Funded

Scholarships by Country of Origin

• African Students
• Developing Countries

Scholarships by Institution / Company

• Flinders University
• German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
• University of Edinburgh
• Australian National University (ANU)
• The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS)

Scholarships by School

• University of Melbourne
• University Of Queensland, Australia
• University of Kent
• Monash University
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use

Scholarships

• Undergraduate Scholarships
• Masters Scholarships
• MBA Scholarships
• Ph.D Scholarships
• Fellowship Scholarships
• Fully Funded Scholarships
• F1 Visa Interview Questions And Answers
• Scholarship Application Letter
• Letter Of Intent For Scholarship
• Personal Statement For Masters
• Motivation Letter For Scholarship
• Scholarship Acceptance Letter

Other Locations

• Scholarships in UK
• Scholarships in Canada
• Scholarships for Nigerian Students
• Scholarships for African Students
• Study Abroad Community

A Guide to Writing a Financial Aid Appeal Letter (with Samples)

Table of Contents

A financial aid appeal letter is a written request submitted by a student to a college or university’s financial aid office. The purpose of the letter is to request a reconsideration of the student’s financial aid package, typically due to changes in their financial circumstances that were not accounted for in the initial aid determination.

You may encounter situations that impact your ability to pay for education. These may include a significant change in family income, unexpected medical expenses, loss of employment, or other foreseen financial challenges.

If these changes occur after you have received your financial aid offer, you can write a formal appeal letter to the financial aid office explaining your situation and providing relevant documentation to support your claims.

In this guide, you’ll gain insight into crafting an effective financial aid appeal letter through our provided samples. But before we jump into the examples, let’s kick things off by getting familiars with the essential building blocks of an appeal letter.

Basic Components

The appeal letter usually includes the following components:

1. Explanation

The student explains the circumstances that have affected their financial situation since the initial offer was made. They should provide a clear and concise account of what has changed and how it has impacted their ability to afford tuition and other educational expenses.

2. Documentation

Students should provide documentation to validate their claims. This could include recent tax returns, pay stubs, medical bills, letters of termination or furlough from employment, or any other relevant evidence that supports their appeal.

3. Specific Request

The letter should clearly state what the student is requesting. This could be an increase in the financial aid award, a review of the initial aid package, or a reconsideration of their eligibility for specific grants, scholarships, or loans.

4. Gratitude and Professional Tone

It’s important to maintain a respectful and professional tone throughout the letter. To see if you’ve got the right tone in your letter, you can give apps like Grammarly a try. Express gratitude for the initial financial aid offer and explain that the appeal is being made due to unforeseen changes.

5. Contact Information

The student’s contact information should be included in case the financial aid office needs to reach out for further clarification.

Financial Aid Appeal Letter Samples

Now that you’ve understood what to include in an appeal letter, let’s spark some inspiration with these samples for various situations. Feel free to pick one that aligns with your circumstances and use it as a nifty financial aid appeal letter template to steer you as you craft your very own letter.

1. Financial Aid Appeal Letter Due to Death Family

Let’s dive into our first example. We’ll walk through an appeal letter crafted when there’s been a tough situation like the passing of a family member, especially a parent.

Dear Financial Aid Office,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to appeal my current financial aid package in light of a significant change in my family’s circumstances. Unfortunately, my father, Chris, passed away on June 16th.

My father’s unexpected passing has had a profound impact on our family’s financial situation. He was the primary breadwinner, and his absence has left us facing unexpected expenses and a loss of income. These new challenges have made it incredibly difficult for me to afford the costs associated with my education.

I am genuinely dedicated to my studies and committed to pursuing my degree at Cambridge University. However, the financial strain my family is experiencing is making it nearly impossible for me to continue without additional assistance.

I have attached documentation, including a copy of the death certificate and any relevant financial information, to support my appeal. I kindly request that you review my case and consider adjusting my financial aid package to reflect these unforeseen changes.

I am truly grateful for the financial support I have received so far, and I believe that with your understanding, I can continue to work towards my educational goals. Your assistance would mean the world to me and my family during this challenging time.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

David Smith

2. Financial Aid Appeal Letter Single Mother

In the upcoming example, you’ll be presented with a guide on composing an appeal letter as a single mother. This letter aims to request an increase in the value of a financial aid package.

Dear Scholarship Committee,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for the scholarship that I was fortunate to receive. This scholarship has been an incredible support in helping me pursue my education as a single mother at Monroe Community College.

However, I am facing unexpected challenges that have impacted my ability to cover my educational expenses. As a single mother, my responsibilities have grown, and I am now facing increased childcare and living costs. Balancing my studies and taking care of my child has proven to be more demanding than I initially anticipated.

I am fully committed to my education and determined to succeed, but the financial strain has put me in a difficult situation. I am reaching out to kindly request a review of my scholarship to see if there is any possibility of adjusting the award amount. This would greatly assist me in managing the additional financial burdens I am currently facing.

I have attached a detailed breakdown of my current financial situation and expenses to provide a clearer understanding of my circumstances. I am truly dedicated to making the most of this educational opportunity and contributing positively to both my child’s future and my community.

Thank you for considering my appeal. Your support has already made a significant difference in my life, and I am hopeful that, with your understanding, I can continue my education and work towards a brighter future for myself and my child.

3. Financial Aid Appeal Letter Example for Bad Grades

No need to worry if you find yourself with a less-than-stellar grade while holding a scholarship, especially one based on merit. Take a look at this example to understand how you can approach the process of appealing for your scholarship.

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to address my recent academic performance and express my deep commitment to maintaining the Presidential Scholarship at the University of Cincinnati.

I acknowledge that my grades during the past semester have fallen short of the standards I have set for myself and that you expect from scholarship recipients. I take full responsibility for my academic performance and want to assure you that I am taking immediate steps to rectify the situation.

I am aware that the scholarship is awarded based on merit, and I greatly value the support it provides toward my education. I am reaching out to inform you that I have already sought assistance from professors, academic advisors, and tutoring resources to improve my study habits and performance.

I am dedicated to turning my academic situation around and proving my potential as a diligent and capable student. Your investment in my education means a lot to me, and I am committed to making the necessary changes to demonstrate the value of your support.

I kindly request your understanding and a chance to continue benefiting from the Presidential Scholarship. I am determined to showcase my growth and progress in the coming semesters and maintain the high standards that this scholarship represents.

Thank you for considering my appeal. I am grateful for the opportunity to attend the University of Cincinnati and for the chance to address my academic challenges while striving for excellence.

4. Financial Aid Appeal Letter Sample Too Many Credits

This last example will show you what to write if you end up taking too many credits while receiving a scholarship that exceeds the allowed limit according to the rules.

Dear Academic Affairs Office,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to address a situation regarding my course load at Broward College.

I recently became aware that I have inadvertently exceeded the maximum credit limit for the semester. I sincerely apologize for this oversight and any inconvenience it may have caused.

I understand the importance of adhering to academic regulations and maintaining a balanced workload to ensure the quality of my education. I am committed to resolving this issue promptly.

To rectify this situation, I am in the process of dropping a course to bring my credit count within the acceptable range. I will also work closely with my academic advisor to prevent such occurrences in the future.

I appreciate your understanding and request your assistance in ensuring that this issue is resolved smoothly. I am eager to continue my studies at Broward College and remain in compliance with all academic requirements.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I apologize again for any inconvenience and look forward to your guidance in rectifying this situation.

Final Thoughts

Submitting a financial aid appeal letter does not guarantee that the financial aid package will be adjusted. However, it provides you with an opportunity to present your case for reconsideration.

Financial aid offices understand that circumstances can change, and they may be willing to review and adjust the aid package based on the new information provided in the appeal letter.

Your In-Depth Guide to the Opportunity Scholarship NM

When are application deadlines for colleges find out here.

Classifying Pacemaker Innovations: Evaluating Risk Reduction In Commercially Available Devices

Why Purdue University Global's Accreditation Sets The Benchmark in Higher Education?

Evaluate The Extent Of Change In The Domestic United States During The Second World War From 1939 To 1945

Sorry, this content is protected by copyright.

How to Appeal Financial Aid + Letter Sample

If you’re reading this post, it’s likely because you want to appeal your financial aid award. Flash back to a few months ago when you filed the Free Application for Financial Student Aid (FAFSA) . The FAFSA form, sponsored by the U.S. State Department of Education, provided your family with the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) index. This number tells colleges how much they believe you can afford to pay for college. With this information, colleges created a financial aid package. 

You may have seen your EFC and immediately became overwhelmed by how much the college believes you can pay for college. You shrugged it off and thought, “this number can’t be real,” only to have a financial aid offer letter that expects you to pay more than the EFC. The first tuition bill is due in August. What are you going to do? 

If this is you, I advise you to appeal your financial aid package. Maybe you’re thinking you have no idea where to start. We’re here to help you. This post outlines how to understand your financial aid package and when and how to appeal and increase the chances you’ll get the best offer your student qualifies for. Below you’ll find an appeal financial aid letter sample you can use to write your own letter.

Key Takeaways

• The first financial aid offer is always the worst.
• If you appeal financial aid, there's a chance you'll receive a better offer.
• Start here for the most important steps to appeal financial aid.
• Download appeal financial aid letter sample below.

Table of Contents

Understanding financial aid.

When you apply for financial aid to attend college, you will receive a document called a financial aid award letter. This letter will tell you what kinds of financial aid you can get, such as grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and student loans.

The financial aid award letter is sent to you by the college or university after you have been accepted for admission and have completed the necessary financial aid forms, such as the  FAFSA   and CSS/Profile . It is important that you read the letter carefully so that you understand what types of aid are being offered to you and any conditions or requirements that may come with each award.

Before you appeal your financial aid package, you must know how to read it. Here’s a rundown of the most important things to know.

• The financial aid award letter can include up to four types of financial aid, including Scholarships, Grants, Loans, and Work/Study. 
• A financial aid package is the  Cost of Attendance (COA)  (e.g., tuition, room, board, fees, books, supplies, etc.) minus your financial responsibility. 
• Ideally, it covers at least up to your Expected Family Contribution (EFC). EFC is the amount colleges expect you can pay in an academic year. But many times, the financial aid package leaves a gap. 
• Gap  is when the college does not meet your complete financial need. In other words, gap is the difference between the cost of attendance minus the financial aid provided and your EFC.

>More: How to Uncover Financial Aid

Remember that financial aid award letters can vary from school to school, so it is important to compare the offers you receive from different institutions. Look carefully at the types and amounts of aid being offered, as well as any differences in the COA and the types of loans available.

If you feel that you have not been offered enough financial aid, or if your financial situation has changed since you submitted your FAFSA or CSS Profile, you may be able to submit a financial aid appeal letter to ask for more aid. But you need to know the process and requirements for submitting an appeal, and understand that there are limits to what you can ask for.

Overall, the financial aid award letter is an important tool for you and your family as you figure out how to pay for college. By understanding the information in this letter, you can make informed decisions about where to attend school, how much you can afford to pay, and how to finance your education.

When assessing your financial aid package, you should look for a college that comes as close to meeting your financial need as possible. To illustrate, let’s examine two scenarios below.

Scenario A:  Jamie has an  EFC of $20,000. She’s been admitted into Berry College, who has a  COA is $54,000. Jamie receives merit scholarships, need-based grants, and federal loans totally $34,000. When subtracting financial aid from the college’s cost of attendance, the college has met 100% of Jamie’s financial need.

Scenario B: Victor has an EFC of $40,000. He’s been admitted into Drexel University, who has a COA of $75,000. Victor receives a merit scholarship of $25,000 and a $5,500 federal loan, for a total of $40,000 in financial aid. When subtracting Drexel’s aid offer from the COA, Victor is left with a gap of $4,500 of unmet financial need.

Unfortunately, scenario B is more common than A. Most schools won’t meet your full financial need. Contrary, t he majority of students and families will see packages that meet between 70-90% of their needs. If this is true for your family, you have strong reason to appeal your financial aid package.

Appealing your financial aid award means requesting the college review your student’s financial aid application. The appeal process will lead the college to re-evaluate your family’s situation to see if you qualify for additional resources, such as merit scholarships, need-based grants, federal grants, loans, and work-study.

Why Appeal Your Financial Aid Package

There are a few reasons to appeal your financial aid package, but the most compelling are: you received a better offer, or financial circumstances have changed since completing the FAFSA.

Mistakes on FAFSA.  It’s not uncommon for families to make mistakes on the actual FAFSA form. While you can edit most fields in the form, you may not realize the errors until receiving your financial aid package. Also, if you used the IRS Data Retrieval Tool (IRS DRT), details may not copy over accurately. Your EFC may calculate high, not reflecting your real family income. This has happened to retired parent filers collecting a pension or social security benefits. I had a parent whose EFC showed $1,000,000 after using the IRS DRT! Check out FAFSA Step-by-Step guide .

Another school offered a better package.  Two years ago, I had a student accepted into  Ithaca College  and  Bard  College. While his top choice was Ithaca, Bard offered more financial aid. We sent a letter to Ithaca outlining Bard’s financial assistance. Within a week, Ithaca’s financial aid office issued a new award letter that topped Bard’s award. Immediately, the student accepted Ithaca’s offer.

Family finances have changed . The FAFSA and CSS Profile, the form required by 400 colleges and universities in the United States, lags by two years. Like many families, your current financial circumstances may have changed by the time colleges assess your financial information. Suppose, when receiving your financial aid package, you have experienced job loss, reduced hours, divorce, death, business closure, or significant medical expenses. Maybe you have unusual property taxes or some unusual settlement. In New York, many families had to send their children to private schools this year because their public schools closed during the pandemic. So that’s due to a natural disaster. 

If you’ve experienced any of these challenges and have supporting documents to back it up, you should consider appealing your financial aid letter and requesting a professional judgment review. A  professional judgment review  is a superpower given to financial aid administrators by the U.S. Department of Education to consider unusual circumstances that impact your federal financial aid eligibility and use their discretion to make adjustments to your Expected Family Contribution. If your EFC declines, you may qualify for additional need-based financial aid. This does not apply to merit scholarship re-consideration.

Special Circumstances can provide students an opportunity appeal their financial information submitted on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) due to a change since filing the FAFSA.

When to Appeal Your Financial Aid Package

The best time to appeal your financial aid package is once you have received financial aid offers for your top colleges. At face value, it may be difficult to tell who’s giving you the better package, so put aid details into an excel spreadsheet, which you can also use as a discussion guide with your student about college costs. Look for comparable schools (e.g., privates vs. privates and publics vs. publics) to see where there’s a good opportunity to ask for more. For example, let’s suppose School A gave you a $3,500 scholarship, and School B provided you with $7,000. You can ask School A to match School B’s offer in your appeal letter.

Start by appealing financial aid for your top schools, then work your way down the list. The process can take two to three months, so don’t delay too long after receiving your financial aid package.

How to Successfully Appeal Financial Aid

Step 1. Learn your school’s process for appealing financial aid. It will vary from school to school, so make sure you check before starting.

Step 2. Gather documentation to support your case if you have a special circumstance. Or other school financial aid offers to compare and refer to in your letter.

Step 3. Write an appeal letter. The letter should be formal, typed, and no longer than one page. Be sure to address the letter to a specific person who handles appeals.

Step 4. Send your letter (or upload into an online portal), depending on the college.

Step 5. Follow up with a phone call to ensure your appeal letter is received.

Step 6. Wait for a response. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. 

Step 7. Regardless of the success of your appeal, send a thank you letter to the college for considering your case.

How to Write Your Financial Aid Appeal Letter

Before you start a letter, do your research.  You should be familiar with the college’s aid sources and their limits. For instance:

• The Pell Grant’s maximum award amount is $6,495 for 2021-2022.
• The maximum Federal Direct Loan amount is $5,500 as an incoming student.

It is worth time researching the scholarships and grant norms for the school. For example, your award letter to Marist College shows a Presidential Scholarship for $12,500. But let’s say that after researching the school’s financial aid websites or discussion boards like  Quora.com , you learn that other students have received awards up to $25,000, then perhaps it’s worth asking Marist for the entire award. For better outcomes on merit scholarships, it’s worth updating the college on your credentials (e.g., higher grades, standardized test scores, new awards, honors, etc.) that show you’re worth the increased amount.

Another tip is that if your award shows a grant, you qualify for need-based aid. So you can ask the school to raise the amount offered to meet your need better, especially if you can show special circumstances shared above.

The best letters come from the student (not the parent). Remember that financial aid officers are humans. Humans are emotional about money. There’s nothing that pulls on the heartstrings more than a student taking the initiative to ask for more funds to make their college dreams come true. Also, the higher you rank in the incoming class or the value you bring to the class in terms of diversity, for example, the more leverage you’ll have in the negotiation.

Here’s what you should say in your letter:

• Express gratitude for being admitted and the initial financial aid offer
• The excitement you have about the prospect of attending the school
• Share how hard you’ve worked in school and the contributions you intend to make
• Ask for a specific amount
• Give a clear reason you are requesting additional support
• Information about offers from other schools to use as a bargaining chip
• Insight into special circumstances that may explain financial hardships that your family is having that support the need for additional aid

Keep reading to find appeal financial aid letter sample wording below. 

Other Tips to Increase Chances

You should also follow the tips below to increase your chances of getting a higher financial aid award. 

• Follow the process to a “T.” If the financial aid letter does not details the school’s appeal process, call the financial aid office to find out.
• The student writes the letter . It means a lot more coming from the person who hopes to attend the college. Parents can write the letter with the student to help with finance specifics. The letter should be no more than one page.
• Address the letter to a specific person to make the formal letter more personal. Search on the school’s website for the name of the person the letter should be addressed to. If not available, call the school.
• Follow up the letter with a phone call to the financial aid office and person you sent the letter to. A quick follow-up can lead to faster response times on your case and ensure it doesn’t go into a black hole. The student can make the phone call, but the parent can take over to discuss specific financial matters or make an appointment for a future date.
• Virtual Zoom visits. More schools are offering virtual zoom visits to discuss your appeal. A face-to-face conversation is a great way to make the case and appeal to the human side. Virtual meetings can take place with both the student and the parent.
• Leverage Campus Welcoming Events. Many colleges offer accepted student days for incoming students who have not yet decided to enroll. These special events hosted by colleges to welcome into the new class and entice students and families to commit can serve the dual purpose of getting in front of financial aid. If they know that the only thing stopping you from attending is the financial aid package, you may get your case considered on the spot. Last school year, a client met with a financial aid administrator, who boosted her offer another $5,000 after the first appeal.
• Patience. Allow time ahead of May 1 to appeal your package. It may take up to two months to hear back from the college. And they may ask for additional information along the way. 

Wait as long as you can until May 1st to get the package you deserve. Many colleges boost offers in the final week of April to increase enrollment.

Possible Outcomes

While it is true that there are no guarantees in life, especially when it comes to appealing for more financial aid, there are various possible outcomes when you present a compelling case to your college. It is essential to remain realistic and consider all possible scenarios while pursuing additional funds.

Outcome #1: You won't get any more money

Despite putting forth a convincing argument, the college might not increase your financial aid award. In this situation, expressing gratitude to the institution for considering your appeal is essential. Evaluate the school’s affordability and decide whether to proceed with enrollment or explore other options that better suit your financial situation.

University of Michigan: Kyle, a high school senior, had his sights set on attending the University of Michigan. When he got accepted, he was thrilled, but he knew that paying for college would be tough. The financial aid offer he received wasn't enough to cover all his expenses, so he decided to submit an appeal for more help. Unfortunately, Kyle's appeal was rejected. Public colleges, like the University of Michigan, often have limited resources for financial aid, and they may not be able to meet every student's needs. This is because they receive funding from the state and sometimes face budget constraints that can affect how much aid they can give. Kyle was disappointed but realized that it's important to have a backup plan. He looked into other ways to cover his college costs, like applying for scholarships, working part-time, or considering less expensive schools. Kyle's story reminds us that while it's important to advocate for ourselves in the financial aid process, it's also crucial to understand that public colleges might not always be able to increase aid, even if the reasons are valid. Being prepared with alternative strategies can help ensure a successful college experience

Outcome #2: You'll get some additional money

In many cases, families who present a strong case for increased financial aid may receive an additional $1,000 to $5,000. This amount, when multiplied over four years, could provide almost $20,000 in extra financial support for college expenses. When you consider the time invested in the appeal process (usually around 3-4 hours), the potential return on investment is significant.

Adam, a high school student, really wanted to go to Yale University. When he got his acceptance letter, he was super happy but worried about how much it would cost. The financial aid they offered wasn't enough for him and his family, so he tried to appeal for more money. His first appeal didn't work, and Adam felt upset. But he didn't give up. With just eight days left before he had to decide on a college, Adam found more reasons and documents to support his request and sent a second appeal. This time, the people at Yale took a better look at his situation and saw that he really needed more help. They accepted his appeal and gave him an extra $8,000 in financial aid. This allowed Adam to go to his dream school. Adam's story shows that it's important to keep trying and not be afraid to ask for help with college costs. Always explore your options and never give up when looking for financial support.

>>More: How to Pay for College

Outcome #3: You'll get a lot extra money

Substantial Additional Aid In some instances, families may be granted a considerable increase in financial aid, ranging from $10,000 to $30,000. This scenario typically applies to families with unique circumstances that warrant a reevaluation of their Expected Family Contribution (EFC), leading to additional need-based institutional and federal financial aid grants. Keep in mind that receiving need-based aid after an appeal may subject you to federal verification, a process that requires schools to review the accuracy of the financial information provided.

Sarah, a high school senior, always wanted to go to Northwestern University. When she got accepted, she was happy but worried about the cost. The school offered her a $4,000 grant, but it wasn't enough to cover everything. Her family had some special situations that made paying for college even harder. Sarah's younger sister was sick and had lots of medical bills. Sarah decided to tell the school about her family's situation and ask for more financial help. Northwestern looked at her request and realized her family needed more support. They lowered the amount her family was expected to pay, which helped Sarah qualify for more aid. In the end, they increased her financial aid to $30,000. Sarah's story shows that it's important to share your family's unique circumstances when asking for help with college costs. By explaining her family's situation, Sarah was able to get more support and attend her dream school.

Keep reading for appeal financial aid letter sample to use to write your own letter.

Appeal Financial Aid Letter Sample 1

To Whom It May Concern:

My name is Brandon X, and I have recently been accepted to Marist College for the Fall 2018. I am writing to respectfully update (from letter sent on April 11, 2018) my consideration for appeal of my financial aid award package. I am extremely grateful to Marist College for the grants, loans and work-study that have been awarded to me thus far, totaling $25,500. However I still have a large gap after financial aid, much higher than what I initially thought upon writing my first appeal letter sent to Marist, nearly $13,000. This would place tremendous burden on my family and make it difficult for me to attend Marist, my dream school.

I feel that my financial situation is unique, making college costs especially challenging for my family. Currently, I live with my mother who is a single parent and underemployed. The cost of living in New York is quite high, so my mother struggles to pay bills on her income. On the FAFSA, my EFC is $25,154, which considers my dad’s income, who no longer lives with us. My father sends child support that goes towards daily expenses and bills. My parents are in the process of divorcing and my father is unable to contribute to my college education. I have no one else to help with financing my college education.

Please consider me for additional financial aid. I am requesting an additional $9,000. An increased award of this size would make attending Marist a reality for me. If you have questions, or need additional documents, please contact me at [email protected] or 516-555-1234.

Sincerely, Brandon X, Class of 2022

Appeal financial aid letter sample 1 works because Brandon explains his situation clearly, which qualifies as a special circumstance. He makes a specific dollar amount ask. Ultimately, Marist College awarded him the requested $9,000.

Appeal Financial Aid Letter Sample 2

Dear Financial Aid Officer:

I recently sent my deposit to admissions and am excited that I'll be attending the University of Miami in Fall 2021! I am beyond excited right now. This letter is in regards to my financial aid package. I want to express my gratitude for receiving such a generous package when our family is dealing with my mother's Metastatic Breast Cancer diagnosis. Our financial situation is not great at the moment with expensive hospital bills. The financial aid package offered has given me hope that we may be able to afford my dream school financially, and for that, I could not be more thankful.

However, after thoroughly looking through the financial aid package, calculating expenses, and the uncertainty in my father's participation in providing for my college education financially, I hope you will consider meeting my need a bit more.

Would it be possible to offer the maximum Federal Direct Subsidized Loan and offer me the full Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan? These adjustments would help my family so much and make financing the rest less stressful for my mother, who’s fighting so hard right now.

Again, I am beyond thankful for everything I have received thus far and cannot wait to attend the University of Miami this Fall.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely, Jessica B.

Appeal financial aid letter sample 1 works because Jessica explains her situation and mentions the particular financial aid types offered by University of Miami. On top of federal loans, the school offered her an additional $42,000 in need-based grants. 

Appeal Financial Aid Letter Sample 3

First, I just want to say how happy, thankful and excited I was, and still am, when I received my acceptance letter to Boston University! Throughout my high school career, I have worked so hard to get into BU. And learning last week that I was accepted is one of the greatest moments of my life.

Unfortunately, I was saddened by my financial aid package which listed a total of $2,100 in grants, and a total of $7,500 with loans. This makes the cost of attending BU, $58,200 per year for my family. Since 2014, we have had a change in our financial circumstances that would make it challenging to pay this amount.

In the year 2014, my dad’s company had a drastic downturn. I made sure I kept my grades and GPA high, thinking this will help me get into Boston University. Unfortunately, last year we were told that the bank will foreclose on our home if we didn’t have the last 3 months mortgage payments. Unfortunately, we didn’t. The process started and as the months passed, we finally had a final notice that we had to move out in June. My mom started to talk to some friends and made a connection to a lawyer who specializes in foreclosures. He couldn’t promise anything, but he said he would try to “stall” the bank and keep us in the house until I graduate high school so I can graduate with my friends.

Now in 2016, it is getting closer, but we are still hoping that we don’t have to move out until the end of June. My dad is working very hard, but last year he only made $10,000, though my mom’s paycheck is helping with the house insurance and bills, it is still so hard. I found a job earlier this year off the books and I am helping wherever I can. I thought for sure I would get at least BU Assurance for $15,000 per year. That was the number I was working with and then included Aid and a private student loan.

As per request on the Special Circumstances section of the financial aid website, I have included a copy of my parent's 2015 Tax Returns and an Income Verification Worksheet. Please review the documents attached and reconsider my request for aid. My family can afford to pay $111,000 for my college education. I am requesting that BU consider providing me with an additional $51,600 bringing my financial aid for all 4 years to $60,000, which breaks down to $15,000 in BU Assurance per year, which can include work/study.

I appreciate your time. Thank you so much in advance for your consideration.

Sincerely, Thomas E, Class of 2021

Appeal financial aid letter sample 1 works because Thomas shares his special circumstance, points to a particular Boston University grant he may qualify for, and offers evidence to support his case. Thomas secured $60,000 in aid across four years plus work-study.

Financial Aid Appeal FAQs

What is a financial aid appeal? A financial aid appeal is when you ask the college or university for more financial help because the initial offer they gave you isn’t enough. You can request more aid if your family’s financial situation has changed or if there are special circumstances to consider.

When should you consider an appeal? You should consider an appeal if there has been a significant change in your family’s financial situation, like a job loss, medical emergency, or unexpected expenses. You can also appeal if you believe the school didn’t consider all the information about your financial need.

• Who should write the appeal letter? The student applying for college should write their financial aid appeal letter. However, if the student is too young or needs help with writing, a parent or guardian can assist or write the letter on their behalf. Regardless of who writes the letter, it should be written in a clear and concise manner, focusing on the student’s situation and the reasons for requesting additional financial aid. Including the student’s perspective and experiences in the letter can make the appeal more compelling and personal.

How do you submit a financial aid appeal? To submit an appeal, you’ll need to write a letter to the financial aid office at the college or university. In the letter, explain your situation and why you need more aid. You should also provide any documents that support your case, like pay stubs, medical bills, or a letter from your parents.

What happens after you submit an appeal? The financial aid office will review your appeal and make a decision. They might ask for more information or documents before making their decision. If your appeal is approved, they will adjust your financial aid offer and send you a new award letter.

Can you appeal more than once? Usually, you can only submit one appeal per academic year. If your situation changes again or if you have new information to share, you might be able to submit another appeal.

What are the chances of a successful financial aid appeal? The chances of a successful financial aid appeal vary depending on the school and your individual circumstances. It’s important to have a strong case and provide clear evidence of your financial need. Keep in mind that not all appeals will be approved, but it’s worth trying if you genuinely need more assistance.

How long does the financial aid appeal process take? The time it takes for the financial aid office to review your appeal and make a decision can vary. Typically, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Make sure to submit your appeal as soon as possible and follow up with the financial aid office if you haven’t heard back in a reasonable amount of time.

Can I appeal for more merit-based scholarships or grants? While financial aid appeals are usually focused on need-based aid, you can also try appealing for more merit-based scholarships or grants. In your letter, highlight your academic achievements, talents, and any special circumstances that make you deserving of additional funding.

What if my financial aid appeal is denied? If your financial aid appeal is denied, you can explore other options to help cover your college expenses. These may include looking for outside scholarships, considering work-study opportunities, or taking out student loans. You can also talk to your school counselor or the financial aid office for more guidance.

Can I appeal my financial aid offer at multiple schools? Yes, you can appeal your financial aid offers at multiple schools if you have a legitimate reason for needing more assistance. However, make sure to tailor each appeal letter to the specific school and provide relevant information for each institution.

Conclusion + Next Steps

If your financial aid offer is lower than you can afford to pay, you should appeal your financial aid package. You’ll need to understand your award letter, then move forward and write a compelling letter to increase the chances you’ll get the best offer you qualify for. 

Now that you’ve read this post, you know when and how to appeal your financial aid package. Follow the steps laid out above, and you’ll be well on your way to increasing your financial aid offers. If you need additional resources for college, be sure to check out the post on  Why Apply for Scholarships  and download the  Scholarship Starter Pack .

• Share on Facebook
• Tweet on Twitter

Recommended Reading

Fafsa questions: step-by-step.

Your step-by-step guide to get your FAFSA questions answered. Learn how to complete the FAFSA to get access to federal financial aid.

How to Pay for College

Read how you can get money to pay for college. FAFSA, 529 savings plans, scholarships, choosing the right college, and hiring a college consultant.

Scholarships to NYU

NYU is expensive. Discover merit-based, need-based, and external scholarships to NYU that will make the costs affordable.

How to Uncover Financial Aid

Should I complete the FAFSA? You may wonder if you qualify for financial aid. Even if you earn $100,000 or more, you likely do.

What is the FAFSA Age Limit?

In this post, learn about the FAFSA age limit and how it may affect your eligibility for financial aid from the college of your dreams.

Guide to Financial Aid Letters + Examples

Confused by your financial aid award letter? This comprehensive guide breaks down each section and includes examples of financial aid letters.

How to Write a Letter of Appeal for Financial Aid

Was your expected family contribution (EFC) too high and now you’re left with a too-little financial aid package? Did your child retake the ACT/SAT to get a significantly higher score? You can amend your financial aid package based on your student’s application or a change in your family’s situation. How? Through the appeal process. 

A financial aid appeal is a request for additional aid , a more lucrative offer, or a higher grant amount often spurred by a change in family circumstances. 

Colleges and universities are inundated with appeals from students whose families have fallen on hard economic times due to the coronavirus pandemic or any other hardship that does not necessarily get reflected on the financial aid applications like the FAFSA and CSS Profile . Many families’ ability to pay for college has changed, and their aid package should change with it.  

If you feel that something needs to be altered, start the financial aid appeal process. Below is a simple guide on how to write a letter of appeal for financial aid . 

Should you appeal your financial aid offer?

In general, two broad categories could warrant an appeal:

• Exceptional merit/multiple offers
• Special or unusual circumstances

You can appeal for more aid if you received better offers from other schools or if your student has exceptionally high test scores . Most appeal letters, however, fall under the second category, especially as families continue to come out of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Special circumstances include job loss, salary reduction/loss of income, death of a parent, unreimbursed medical expenses, divorce/separation of student’s parents, serious illness, natural disaster, and more.

Learn more about two-household ( divorced/separated ) families: What Divorced, Separated, and Two Household Families Need to Know About the FAFSA and CSS Profile

When is a letter of appeal due?

You can submit an appeal at any time. There is no particular due date, but it’s often best to start the process as soon as you experience a change in circumstances. If, for example, you were furloughed earlier this year, start the process as soon as you receive the formal letter or notice. 

It doesn’t matter if it’s the middle of a semester or if school is out of session—the earlier you file, the better.

How do you submit an appeal?

Each university has its own appeals process, making it critical to follow the specific system. You will almost always be writing a letter of appeal, but some schools require additional information or forms. Contact the school’s financial aid office to discover whom to contact about the appeal, how to get in touch with them, and the requirements you must meet.

Best practices for writing a letter of appeal for financial aid

Once you understand how the appeal process works at a specific school, you will need to make your case in an appeal letter. It’s important to get this letter right, so here are some best practices to keep in mind as they start writing.

• Have your student submit the appeal. It is important for you to remember that it is the student appealing for additional financial aid, not the parents. Of course, parents need to provide much of the supporting documentation in many cases, but the best results come when the student is presenting their case.
• Keep it short and sweet. A one-page letter is ideal.
• Be honest and authentic. It’s critical to express your circumstances using direct and persuasive language. You shouldn’t smudge or veil your situation, instead clearly express how your ability to pay for school has changed. Avoid vague language or overarching statements. 
• Provide adequate supporting documentation. When it comes to your appeal letter: document, document, document. Your specific circumstances need to be properly documented whether it’s a termination notice, tax documents, test scores , or other merit-based requests. Be sure to attach this documentation to the letter.
• Ensure the writing is clear, concise, and grammatically correct. Now isn’t the time to push the envelope on writing style. Stick to traditional grammar rules and proofread the document so it’s free of errors. The last thing you want to do is misspell the school’s name when you’re appealing for more money. 

Why should you appeal for more financial aid?

The price of college isn’t set in stone and neither is the financial aid that your family received in the mail. You will likely be overwhelmed by the process, so break it into small, manageable, and actionable steps.

Financial aid is a crucial component of college affordability . By being proactive about your student’s aid package, you can help save your child thousands of dollars, and may even allow them to take on one less student loan . 

Worried appealing might impact your child’s admission to a particular college? Learn more in Does Appealing for More Financial Aid Affect Admissions .

Need help writing a letter of appeal?

We know that this can be confusing. Having someone who knows what colleges are looking for to review your letter of appeal would be so helpful. Well, we can do that. 

With a MyCAP account you get access to several of our expert’s compiled knowledge, all at your fingertips. And with our Valedictorian package, you get all that PLUS a 1 on 1 session with a CAP pro. This can be to discuss how to write a letter of appeal for financial aid , review net price of various college options on your child’s “to apply” list, or even help you try to ask for more free scholarship money from a particular university. 

Get the answers to all this and more. Sign up for a MyCAP Valedictorian account today to learn and get access to our team of experts and our college search tools to make this process easier! Get 1 on 1 expert help for less than $300 here .

Related Articles

How Much Financial Aid Can You Get? Cracking the Code on College Costs

As a parent, you want the best for your child's future, and higher education is...

College Aid Pro’s $1,000 No Essay Scholarship And Award Analyzer Update

We wanted to share a quick update with our families on our $1,000 No Essay...

How to Use MyCAP's Award Analyzer - Is Your Financial Aid Offer Worth Appealing?

https://youtu.be/xp4mSKmRo1s Hey Seniors! Congrats on making it to the last semester of high school!  You're almost...

Want to unlock the affordable college education?

Welcome back.

• {{children.title}} {{currentYear}} {{children.title}}

{{parent.cta_data.text}}

• Manage Account
• GET STARTED

How to Appeal for More Financial Aid for College

By Mark Kantrowitz

August 16, 2023

Your financial aid award letter lists a package of various types and amounts of financial aid available to you, but they sometimes fall short of your need.

If you don’t get enough financial aid, you can always ask for more. The worst that can happen is the college financial aid administrator says “no.” But, to increase the chance of a successful financial aid appeal, it is important to understand how the appeals process works.

College financial aid is not like negotiating with a car dealership, where bluff and bluster will get you a bigger, better deal. Appealing for more financial aid depends on presenting the college financial aid office with adequate documentation of special circumstances that affect the family’s ability to pay for college.

[See also How to Get More Financial Aid for College , which provides tips on how to increase eligibility for need-based financial aid. Also, read about how to find scholarships and how to increase your odds of winning a scholarship .]

What is a Special Circumstance?

Special circumstances include any family financial circumstances that have changed in the last two years or any financial circumstances that differentiate the student from typical students. 

The top 10 most common special circumstances include:

• Job loss or decrease in income 
• Divorce or separation of a dependent student’s parents
• Death of a dependent student’s parent
• High unreimbursed dependent care costs for a special needs or disabled child or elderly parents
• High unreimbursed medical and dental expenses
• Catastrophic losses, such as damages or losses from a natural disaster like a tornado, hurricane, pandemic, or flood
• Textbook costs beyond the standard allowance in the cost of attendance
• Change in the student’s marital status
• Dependency override
• End of child support, Social Security benefits for a child or alimony payments

As part of the changes to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid ( FAFSA ) that take effect for the 2024-2025 school year, special circumstances will also include unusual business, investment and real estate losses, as well as severe disability of the student, parent or spouse.

What is a Dependency Override?

A college financial aid administrator can change a student’s dependency status from dependent to independent when there are unusual circumstances. This is called a dependency override .

Dependency overrides generally involve the end of the family relationship, such as court protection from abuse orders against the parents, long-term incarceration or institutionalization of both parents, and abandonment of the student.

When Can You Appeal for More Financial Aid?

You can appeal for more financial aid at any time.

You can appeal before you apply for financial aid. You can appeal after you apply for financial aid. You can appeal in the middle of the academic year. You can appeal during the first year in college or after the first year in college.

It is best to appeal for more financial aid as soon as the special circumstance has occurred. For example, if a parent has lost their job, appeal for more financial aid as soon as you’ve received the layoff notice or termination letter. The sooner you appeal for more financial aid, the most likely you are to get a favorable result.

Note that an appeal lasts for only one year. If the special circumstances still apply, you must appeal again in subsequent years.

See also: Complete Guide to Financial Aid and the FAFSA

How to Appeal for More Financial Aid

To appeal for more financial aid for college, follow these steps:

• Call the college financial aid office to ask about the financial aid appeals process. Depending on the college, the appeals process might be called a professional judgment review, a special circumstances review or a financial aid appeal. The college may ask you to complete a form that addresses the most common situations. Most colleges ask the family to write an appeal letter.
• Identify the special circumstances that affect your ability to pay for college. The special circumstances are the reasons why you are appealing for more financial aid. You might have just one special circumstance, or you might have several, but you need to have at least one. Wanting more money is not sufficient justification for a financial aid appeal. The special circumstances provide the reasons why you need more money. Focus on needs, not wants.
• Write a financial aid appeal letter. Keep the letter concise, limiting it to one or two pages. The appeal letter should summarize the special circumstances and their financial impact on the family. If there is more than one special circumstance, provide a bulleted list of the special circumstances, with one special circumstance per bullet. Organize the special circumstances according to the financial impact, listing the most significant special circumstance first. Be specific, especially concerning dates and dollars. Emphasize when a special circumstance is due to factors beyond the family’s control. College financial aid administrators are less likely to approve changes that are due to discretionary choices, such as lifestyle expenses. Include your contact information in the appeal letter, in case the financial aid office has follow-up questions.
• Don’t ask for a specific amount of money . The change in financial aid package will be based on the financial impact of the special circumstances on the family, not how much money you are requesting. Requesting a specific amount of money might backfire, causing you to get less money than you really need. Some colleges will give you the calculated change in financial need or the amount you asked for, whichever is less.
• Be polite, as there is no appeal beyond the college financial aid administrator . You cannot appeal to the college president or to the U.S. Department of Education. Congress delegated the authority to make adjustments to the data elements on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to the college financial aid administrator, and only the college financial aid administrator. Close the letter by thanking the college financial aid administrator for their consideration of your appeal.
• Gather independent third-party documentation of the special circumstances. Examples of documentation include copies of layoff notices, medical/dental bills, bank and brokerage account statements, receipts, and letters from people who are familiar with the family’s situation. Letters should ideally be written by people who are unrelated to the family, such as teachers, school counselors, social workers, doctors and police. Letters from priests, rabbis, pastors, imams and other clergy can also be helpful. The documentation must be related to the special circumstances.
• Complete any forms required by the college financial aid office. These forms are designed to gather details about the special circumstances and other aspects of the family’s financial background. Most colleges perform a holistic review of the family’s financial circumstances as part of an appeal for more financial aid.
• Attach copies of documentation to the appeal letter. Do not send originals, as they will not be returned. At many colleges, the documentation will be imaged and then shredded.
• Mail the financial aid appeal letter, documentation and forms to the college’s financial aid office. It is best to send the letter with delivery confirmation or by certified mail, return receipt requested, so you have proof that the letter was received. Send the letter to each of the colleges to which the student has applied, since each college performs its own review of the financial aid appeal.
• Follow-up by calling each college’s financial aid office a week after mailing the appeal letters, to confirm receipt. Ask the college financial aid office if they need any more information.

A Tool for Writing the Financial Aid Appeal Letter

Swift Student provides a tool for writing the financial aid appeal letter for free. They also provide several templates for various special circumstances . 

There’s just one caveat. The tool assumes that the family is affected by just one special circumstance. But, when it rains, it pours. Often, families are affected by several special circumstances at once. For example, if a primary wage-earned has a serious illness like cancer, they might also experience a pay cut at the same time, and so be affected by a drop in income and high medical expenses. Even if they don’t lose their job, they might no longer be able to earn overtime. 

So, when using the Swift Student tool, you may need to run it once for each special circumstance, then merge the appeal letters it produces.

What Happens If Your Appeal Is Approved?

The process is largely formulaic and data-driven.

If your financial aid appeal is approved, it will be implemented by making a change in the data elements on the FAFSA. For example, if a parent has lost their job, the financial aid administrator will change the income and income tax figures on the FAFSA.

This will generate a new Student Aid Index (SAI) using the FAFSA’s standard financial aid formula. The SAI will yield a new figure for demonstrated financial need, based on the difference between the cost of attendance and the new SAI. This, in turn, will yield a new financial aid package.

The college financial aid administrator can also implement some adjustments through a change to the cost of attendance. Changing the cost of attendance is more common when the student’s SAI is already zero or lower.

Financial aid administrators are also more likely to make an adjustment to the cost of attendance when the appeal concerns the cost of attendance, such as textbook costs, transportation expenses, dependent care costs and disability-related expenses. 

Recent Developments Concerning Financial Aid Appeals

The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, implements FAFSA simplification effective starting with the 2024-2025 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). However, some of the changes are being implemented early, starting with the 2023-2024 award year. These changes include:

• College financial aid administrators can no longer have a policy or practice of denying all financial aid appeals. Every appeal must be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• College financial aid administrators cannot limit adjustments to just the data elements on the FAFSA or just the components of the cost of attendance.
• Dependency overrides will be assumed to continue for the duration of the student’s entire college enrollment. College financial aid administrators can rely on a dependency override made by a financial aid administrator at another college in the same or previous year, if there isn’t any conflicting information.
• Requests for a dependency override must be evaluated within 60 days of the start of the student’s enrollment in the college.
• Income earned from work may be set to zero due to unemployment during a qualifying emergency.
• Determination of homelessness must be made without regard to the reasons why the student is unaccompanied and/or homeless.
• Eligibility for unsubsidized Federal Direct Stafford Loans no longer requires parents to cut off all financial support.
• Emergency aid will no longer reduce the student’s other aid.

What You Can Do If Your Financial Aid Appeal is Not Approved

If your financial aid appeal is not approved, you can explore other ways to pay for college. If you haven’t done so already, apply for as many scholarships as possible. Claim the American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) or other education tax breaks. You may also consider borrowing a private student loan to cover costs. 

This article is based on the book, How to Appeal for More College Financial Aid , written by Mark Kantrowitz. The book is available on Amazon.com in paperback and Kindle formats.

Related Articles

Can You Use Student Loans to Pay for Rent?

Can I Buy a House and Pay My Mortgage with 529 Plan Money?

6 Best Banks for College Students

Rollovers From a 529 Plan to Roth IRA: What to Know

A good place to start:

See the best 529 plans, personalized for you

Unlock Printing

Already have an account? Log in

Home — Application Essay — Business School — How to Write an Appeal Letter for Financial Aid Example and Tips

How to Write an Appeal Letter for Financial Aid Example and Tips

• University: American University

About this sample

Words: 804 |

Published: Dec 27, 2022

Words: 804 | Pages: 2 | 5 min read

Table of contents

When to write a financial aid appeal letter, what to include in your financial aid appeal letter, seven steps to appeal your financial aid, an example sap appeal letter for financial aid is given below.

Finally, you have decided to go to a great college and the only one thing to search out the college isn’t giving you expected money. This is “How to write an appeal letter for financial aid” where some main points are discussed. In your financial aid letter, include all the documents and information of any specific circumstances. Successful financial appeal letter is one of the best ways of getting more money for college.

Say no to plagiarism.

Get a tailor-made essay on

'Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned'?

It is better to request for financial aid as early as possible before it is too late. First, contact through email or call the financial aid office of the college to know more about the process. Inquire whom you should contact and ask whether the school has any special prerequisite. You or your family finances have changed since you submitted your FAFSA. This may include a medical emergency, loss of your job or homeless. If you made any mistakes while filing the FAFSA, this might also lead to losing your financial aid.

To continue the example of financial aid appeal letter your letter includes the following: an address to a particular person, you need to search for a person at the college to send your letter directly. A clear “ask” and a specific “why”, you need to inquire the college administrator to review your letter and then provide a specific reason why you require more aid. Tell about your current situations honestly. If you have any changes in financial status while submitting the FAFSA, request the college advisor to check and ask for any adjustments with the attendance cost. Provide any related documents that will help to your financial aid letter. If the college office asks for any particular applications, include them also. Ask for exact aid which is necessary for you to attend the college. If you require the amount for any specific things, such as housing, travelling cost or supplies, be sure to name them.If you had another better financial aid offer from another college, include this offer also and ask the college to match it. Mention thank you to the office for considering your offer and for financial aid you already received. When you are composing a letter, make sure to write by yourself, make sure to write with your own handwriting which will have stronger appeal if you ask for more money in your own words. Check the words you write and tone. The tone of your letter should be clear what you are writing and it should be in a request manner. Be clear and straight, avoid writing more than one page. Check out for grammar as it’s the most important aspect you should keep in mind regarding the errors, grammatical mistakes while sending an appeal letter.

• Step 1: Contact the college administrator for the basic appeal process.
• Step 2: Search the best person to write an appeal letter to.
• Step 3: Think about how much aid you want.
• Step 4: Collect all your documents to uphold your appeal.
• Step 5: Don’t write an appeal letter with more than one page which possesses info about why you require more money.
• Step 6: Acknowledge your letter, necessary documents and any other forms that the college asks.
• Step 7: When you ask for more financial aid and if it denies, ask for student loans and scholarships.

September 8th, 2019

Mrs. John Hopkins

Office of Financial Aid

University of Wisconsin

302 Street Name

City, State

Dear Mrs. Hopkins,

I am Angelina, an undergraduate, and I am very much interested in attending University/College this fall. I feel very much gratitude for your detailed financial aid package. After my application got selected, my family has unexpectedly experienced a huge financial crisis.

Just a day after my aid information, my father suddenly lost his job. He is our family’s income provider. My mother works as a part timer with less wages. Alternatively, we are unable to meet the funds and I need this aid for my college expenses, tuition, and books.

It is my great request to attend the college this fall and I personally ask you to review my award with respect to these new sudden situations. Your help is highly appreciated if you could take your time to review my appeal.

Check the attached proof of my father’s termination. It could be great if I could provide any further detailed information or any questions I can answer for you.

Please do not hesitate to contact me through an email or call. I will give you immediate response.

John Hopkins

1680 street

City, State, Zip

165-465-4598

[email protected]

Keep in mind: This is only a sample.

Get a custom paper now from our expert writers.

And remember: before writing and sending your letter it's better to write a financial appeal letter example, check it, rewrite mistakes and only then you should send it to the administration of college or school that you want to attend. 

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Prof Ernest (PhD)

Verified writer

• Expert in: Business School

+ 130 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

1 pages / 618 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Are you interested in getting a customized paper?

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Business School

Annie’s face is as vivid in my mind now as it was four years ago. I can see the passion for life that sparkled in her eyes and the crazy, intense grin that stretched across her face like a bridge across the sea. Although my [...]

As I researched various universities, Pratt Institute stood out to me as an exceptional institution for the study of design and business. Their commitment to providing a rigorous and comprehensive education in these fields was [...]

I am not a runner, but I do it anyway to improve my fitness and endurance. Forcing my size nine feet into pink Pumas and my body into shorts and a tee is an arduous task, but I do it anyway. "I must." I pound the pavement, [...]

During my junior year of high school, I had the wonderful opportunity to participate in a student exchange program to Italy sponsored by the Ontario Student Exchange Foundation and Intercultura. The exchange program worked on a [...]

“There aren’t any more chairs. Just pull one up!” It was a crowded lunch hour as usual at the Veteran’s Administration Hospital. I volunteered there during the summers and each day encountered the same problem – finding [...]

In a world filled with fascination for animals, my peculiar "fish problem" stands out. While most kids wanted a puppy or kitten, I yearned for a pet whale, inspired by the movie "Free Willy." This fascination led me to Sea [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

Submitting a Financial Aid Appeal

You may submit a financial aid appeal if your financial circumstances have changed since you submitted your fafsa mar 22, 2024 • knowledge, article specifics, information.

How can i submit a financial aid appeal?

You may submit a financial aid appeal if your financial circumstances have changed since you submitted your FAFSA, or if you need additional assistance.   https://www.sandiego.edu/one-stop/financial-aid/appeal-types/  

Related Articles

• Number of Views 12
• Number of Views 16
• Number of Views 2.05K
• Number of Views 19

Trending Articles

• Torero Mail FAQ
• ChemDraw Install
• Changing the Host of an Upcoming Zoom Meeting
• Authentication failing on network "eduroam"
• How to: Microsoft 365 Online

Division of Student Affairs

Financial aid & scholarship department.

• Skip to Content
• Accessibility
• Special and Unusual Circumstances
• Cost of Attendance
• Financial Aid Process
• What Affects My Aid?
• Urgent Dates
• Satisfactory Academic Progress
• California Dream Act
• Important 2024-25 Financial Aid Information
• On-Campus Scholarships
• Off-Campus Scholarships
• Financial Aid TV
• CSUN with a Heart
• CalWORKs/GAIN
• Verification Guide
• Award and Planning Guide
• How To Guides
• Financial Literacy Program
• Volunteer Income Tax Assistance
• Online Tax Software Reviews and Comparisons
• Loan Forgiveness Programs
• Federal and State Websites
• Annual Report
• DREAM Students
• Credential Students
• Graduate Students
• Student Veterans
• Study Abroad
• National Student Exchange
• Cross Enrollment
• Resident Assistants
• Intrasystem and Concurrent Visitors
• International Students

FINANCIAL AID

• Financial Aid Basics Main
• Forms & Documents Main
• Scholarships Main
• Resources Main
• Special Groups Main

Professional Judgment is the discretion granted to financial aid administrators by law to adjust a student's financial aid application due to special circumstances. All professional judgment decisions are made on a case-by-case basis and must be fully documented. In general, each professional judgment decision is made on its own; a financial aid administrator cannot automatically accept a professional judgment decision made for the same student by a financial aid administrator at another school. Professional judgment decisions are the sole discretion of a financial aid administrator and cannot be appealed to the university or the Department of Education.

INCOME APPEAL

Depending on the reason you are submitting an Income Appeal, the suggested documentation will vary. In most cases, we will ask for an estimate of all sources of income for the entire 2023 year (January 1, 2023-December 31, 2023), a signed statement explaining you or your parent(s) special circumstance AND a signed copy of the Income Appeal form. If you are not able to provide the required documents, please contact the Financial Aid & Scholarship Department at 1-818-677-4085 or by email [email protected] to ask for instructions or to speak with a financial aid counselor (include your CSUN ID if sending an email). Please read the FAQs below before you click on the Income Appeal form .

These are the conditions that are considered for an Income Appeal:

• Unemployment or change in employment
• Divorce/separation
• Death of student’s parent or spouse
• One-time income (e.g., inheritance, moving expense allowance, back-year Social Security payments, IRA or pension distribution, or gambling winnings). You will have to identify the source of income, the amount, and how funds were spent or invested. See FAQs below for details

Do not submit an appeal if the following applies to you. Submitting an appeal will NOT change your aid eligibility:

• Your 2023-2024 FAFSA Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is $0
• You are a 2nd BA degree student who has been offered $5,500 in a Federal Direct Subsidized Loan
• You are a 2nd Credential student, or are enrolled in an Intern Credential program and were offered $5,500 in a Federal Direct Subsidized Loan
• You are a Master’s degree student

Timeframes to file an appeal:

• Your appeal must be submitted and processed prior to the last day of your enrollment.
• Income Appeals may take up to 6 weeks to process.

Appeals may take up to 6 weeks to process once it is received with all completed documents

Click on this link to review the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

COST OF ATTENDANCE APPEALS

A Cost of Attendance Appeal allows a student to demonstrate they have significantly higher educationally-related expenses than on the standard Cost of Attendance. All expenses must be incurred during the given academic year (for example, for the 2022-2023 year, all expenses would need to have occurred between July 2023 and May 2024). Documentation will vary depending on the situation. In most cases, approval for increase to Cost of Attendance will result in possible increased loan eligibility only

Please review the FAQs below before you complete the form. The Cost of Attendance Appeal form is located at https://www.csun.edu/financialaid/2023-2024-forms-and-documents  under Appeals and Special Circumstances.

UNUSUAL CIRCUMSTANCE APPEAL REQUEST

Students who are considered dependent per federal/state definition must provide parental information on their financial aid application. In extraordinary and documented cases, a financial aid administrator may override a student’s dependency status for the purpose of applying for financial aid.  Review the FAQs below if you are currently considered a dependent student for financial aid purposes, but believe you have extraordinary circumstances which warrant a review of your dependency status for 2023-2024.

Extraordinary circumstances may include:

• Abandonment by parents (e.g. no contact and no support for one year or longer)
• An abusive family environment that threatens the student’s health or safety
• The student is unable to locate the parents
• Incarceration or institutionalization of both parents for an extended period

The following circumstances, individually or in combination, do not qualify as extraordinary circumstances meriting dependency override consideration:

• Parents refuse to contribute to the student’s education
• Parents are unwilling to provide information on the financial aid application, or for verification
• Parents do not claim the student as a dependent for income tax purposes.
• Student supports themselves
• Student does not live with parents

Click on this link to review the   Frequently Asked Questions  (FAQs)

To print out an informational handout on how to submit a request for a dependency override, click here . 

Financial Aid Basics

School Code: 001153

Contact Us Financial Aid & Scholarship Department 18111 Nordhoff Street Northridge, CA 91330-8307 Phone: 1-818-677-4085 Fax: 1-818-677-6787 Email: [email protected] Located in Bayramian Hall , 1 st Floor Lobby (BH100)

Monday - Friday Lobby hours: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Phone hours: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. 

Business Hours Monday – Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Scholarship Office The Scholarship Office is available by phone at 1-818-677-4907 or by email at [email protected] Hours: Monday – Friday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Counseling Hours Monday – Wednesday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. by referral only

Ask a question like:

What is the difference between a subsidized and an unsubsidized loan?

Enter your question

• Page Feedback
• Emergency Information
• University Policies & Procedures
• Terms and Conditions for Use
• Privacy Policy
• Document Reader
• California State University
• Federal Disclosure

This Was A Historic Admissions Cycle—Here Are All Of The Ivy League Acceptance Rates

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Harvard Office of Admissions and Financial Aid

The wait is finally over—last night, students across the nation were notified of their acceptance or rejection from the Ivy League schools to which they applied. “Ivy Day,” as it is called, not only brings students much-anticipated admissions decisions, but also an overarching picture of admissions trends at the most elite and selective institutions of higher education in America. This year heralds a particularly consequential admissions season for top universities—it is the first since the Supreme Court’s landmark decision ending affirmative action. It also comes amidst heightened tensions on college campuses, as institutional responses to the war in the Middle East left many students questioning their Ivy League dreams.

After years of plummeting admissions rates and ballooning applicant pools, some universities saw the tides turn this cycle. Harvard reported its highest acceptance rate in four years, accepting 3.59% of applicants, up from 3.41% last year. This follows the trend set during the 2023–24 early admissions cycle—their early acceptance rate rose to 8.74% , up from 7.56% in the 2022–23 early admissions cycle. The school also reported a 5.14% decrease in applications from last year, which may, in part, account for the buoyed acceptance rate. Brown noted a similar pattern: the institution’s acceptance rate rose to 5.16% overall, up from 5.09% for the Class of 2027, and saw a 5% decrease in applicants, which totaled 48,881. Despite the slight rise in admissions rates, this year marked the third lowest acceptance rate in Brown’s history. This trend of shrinking applicant pools will likely continue next year, as top schools such as Yale , Brown , and Dartmouth reinstate their standardized testing requirements.

Meanwhile, other Ivy League schools reported starkly different numbers. Rather than thinning, the University of Pennsylvania’s applicant pool swelled by more than 10%, numbering over 65,000—the largest in the university’s history (the university continued its practice of delaying the release of acceptance rates and demographic data). Yale also made history this year, as the school’s acceptance rate hit a historic low at 3.7% , down from 4.35% last year. Dartmouth, too, saw a 10% increase in applications, hitting a record low acceptance rate of 5.3%.

Many schools declined to release the racial and ethnic makeup of their pool of admits (either indefinitely or until the official end of the admissions cycle), following the Supreme Court’s ruling on affirmative action. However, schools tend to report other demographic information, such as the number of students from rural areas and the number of first generation students among those who were accepted.

Below are the admissions data released by Ivy League institutions for the Class of 2028 Regular Decision admissions round thus far:

Brown University:

Samsung Releases New Feature Boost To Millions Of Galaxy Phones

Trump again targets judge s daughter in new york criminal case, apple iphone 16 pro new leak reveals updated colors coming this fall.

• Applications Received: 6,244 (Early Decision) | 42,637 (Regular Decision) | 48,881 (Overall)
• Number Accepted: 898 (Early Decision) | 1,623 (Regular Decision)
• Acceptance Rate: 14.38% (Early Decision) | 3.80% (Regular Decision) | 5.16% (Overall)
• Applications Received: 60,248 (Early Decision and Regular Decision)
• Number Accepted: 2,319
• Acceptance Rate: 3.85%
• Applications Received: TBA
• Number Accepted: 5,139
• Acceptance Rate: TBA
• Applications Received: 31,657 (Overall)
• Number Accepted: 1,685 (Overall)
• Acceptance Rate: 5.3% (Overall)
• Applications Received: 54,008 (Overall)
• Number Accepted: 1,245 (Regular Decision)
• Acceptance Rate: 3.59% (Overall)
• Number Accepted: TBA
• Applications Received: >65,000
• Applications Received: 57,465 (Overall)
• Number Accepted: 1,365 (Regular Decision)
• Acceptance Rate: 3.7%

Updated as of: March 29, 2028 8 a.m. EST

Compiled by: Command Education

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

Ex-Trump Lawyer's Desperate Plea: John Eastman Appeals To Right-Wing Christian Groups For Financial Aid

I n the wake of his legal troubles, former Donald Trump campaign lawyer John Eastman is seeking financial support from right-wing Christian groups.

What Happened : Eastman, currently facing criminal charges in Georgia and potential disbarment in California for his alleged involvement in the 2020 election coup plot , is now appealing to Christian nationalists for financial aid, reported MSNBC.

Trending: Elon Musk Reacts To Jeff Bezos Saying 'There's No Way You Could Have Tesla And SpaceX Without' Him: 'Must

Must Read: AMD Stock Worth A 27% Return If It Reclaims Recent Record Highs

Eastman, also an unindicted co-conspirator in the federal Jan. 6 case against Trump, has been presenting himself as a Christian nationalist hero to attract donations from the most religious supporters of the MAGA movement. He recently appeared at an event held by the Salt and Light Council, a Christian nationalist organization, where he made self-aggrandizing remarks about his role in the battle against “tyranny.”

See Also: Former Trump Aide Says If Letitia James Seizes Ex-President’s Properties It Would Be ‘Very Hard On His Ego’

During the event, Eastman promoted his page on the Christian crowdfunding site GiveSendGo, where he has already received over $630,000 for his legal defense fund. He stated that he is currently “about a million in the hole beyond that” and anticipates his total legal costs to be between $3 million and $3.5 million, the report added.

GiveSendGo is a crowdfunding platform popular among right-wing extremists and Eastman, one of the most prominent figures on the site, is using it to solicit donations in the name of Jesus.

Why It Matters : Eastman’s financial struggles are a direct result of his involvement in the 2020 election coup plot. In June 2023, he faced a disbarment effort in Los Angeles for his role in devising strategies to keep former President Trump in power after the 2020 election. Eastman was expected to testify before the State Bar of California in a proceeding that could potentially result in him losing his license to practice law in the state. This legal fallout has now led to Eastman’s current financial predicament.

Eastman’s situation is indicative of the financial and legal troubles faced by several of Trump’s associates who were involved in the election coup plot, including Rudy Giuliani and Kenneth Chesebro. The former president himself is currently  dealing with legal challenges  on both federal and state levels, across different places like New York City, Washington, Atlanta, Florida, and Georgia. Despite the allegations, he continues to assert his innocence, describing the cases as a “witch hunt.”

According  to Real Clear Politics, at the national level, Trump held 46.7% support among voters, While Biden trailed with 44.7% support.

Read Next: Trump Reportedly Eyes Marco Rubio For VP In 2024 Presidential Bid But There Is A Hiccup Called The Constitution

This content was partially produced with the help of  Benzinga Neuro  and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Photo via Wikimedia Commons

© 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

This article Ex-Trump Lawyer's Desperate Plea: John Eastman Appeals To Right-Wing Christian Groups For Financial Aid originally appeared on Benzinga.com .

Minnesota Law

Federal Immigration Litigation Clinic Students Argue an Impact Litigation Case Before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit

Two students in the James H. Binger Center for New Americans’ Federal Immigration Litigation Clinic (FILC) recently had the rare opportunity to argue an impact litigation case in front of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit.  Mollie Clark Ahsan ’24  and  Amirah Ellison ’24  shared the opening and rebuttal arguments, respectively, for a complex case involving the deportation of a local permanent resident. Working with FILC’s immigration litigation fellow  Visiting Assistant Clinical Professor of Law Seiko Shastri ’21  and FILC director  Associate Clinical Professor of Law   Nadia Anguiano ’17 , the two students argued that the government had made two major legal errors in removing the noncitizen.

The arguments at the Eighth Circuit occurred more than eight years after the case first came to FILC. At that time, Anguiano herself was a law student. “The arc of this case is really spectacular,” she says. “Impact litigation often takes years to develop. Generations of law students worked on this case. When FILC first took the case, we knew it had the potential to help many people being charged under a statute that the U.S. Supreme Court struck down. Now it has morphed into a case that may, albeit for different reasons, similarly affect noncitizens who have been unlawfully charged with removal. 

The case is now pending a decision by the Eighth Circuit, but the FILC team has high hopes as two sister courts have already adopted the position FILC set forth.

Read more about this case in the digital edition of  Minnesota Law  magazine

L to R: Coryn Johnson ’24, Amirah Ellison ’24, Mollie Clark Ahsan ’24, Alex Lloyd ’25, Associate Clinical Professor of Law Nadia Anguiano '17, and Visiting Assistant Clinical Professor of Law Seiko Shastri '21. Photo: Tony Nelson

• Curriculum & Requirements
• Meet the Team
• Frequently Asked Questions
• LEAD Program
• Current LL.M. Students
• Class of 2023
• Class of 2022
• Class of 2021
• Class of 2020
• Class of 2019
• Class of 2018
• Class of 2017
• Class of 2016
• Class of 2015
• Class of 2014
• Class of 2013
• Class of 2012
• Class of 2011
• Class of 2010
• Class of 2009
• Class of 2008
• How to Apply
• Join Our Mailing List
• Recruiting Events
• S.J.D. Candidates
• Where Students Go
• Testimonials & Videos
• Program Faculty
• Career Support
• Courses, Registration & Grading
• Business Law Minor
• Dedicated Undergraduate Law Courses
• Subject Areas
• Course List
• Summer Session 2024
• Supervised Field Placements
• Law in Practice
• Moot Courts
• Legal Writing
• Education & Participation
• Corporate Institute
• Human Rights Center
• Institute for Law & Economics
• Institute for Law & Rationality
• Institute on Metropolitan Opportunity
• James H. Binger Center for New Americans
• Program in Law & History
• Robina Institute of Criminal Law and Criminal Justice
• Robina Public Interest Scholars Program
• Saeks Public Interest Residency Program
• Business Law
• Civil Litigation
• Criminal Justice
• Environmental & Energy Law
• Health Law & Bioethics
• Human Rights Law
• Immigration Law
• Intellectual Property & Technology Law
• International Law
• Labor & Employment Law
• Semester Exchange Programs
• Academic Calendar
• Lecture Series
• Information Sessions
• Connect with Admissions
• Tuition & Financial Aid
• Recruitment Events
• Transfer Policy
• Visiting Students
• By The Numbers
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
• Take A Virtual Tour
• MN Pre-Law Scholars
• Full Faculty List
• Faculty News
• Recent Publications
• Faculty Research Papers
• Scholarship Repository
• Law Students
• Law Faculty
• Collections
• 2022 Career Facts & Statistics
• 2021 Career Facts & Statistics
• 2020 Career Facts & Statistics
• Corporate Fellowship
• Judicial Clerkships
• Professional Essentials Milestone
• Public Interest Careers
• Interviewing Programs
• Grades & Percentiles
• For Students
• Career Center Staff
• Business & Nonprofits
• Economic Justice
• Family and Community
• Human Rights and Immigration
• Rights & Liberties
• View All Clinics
• Clinic Directors
• Faculty Advising
• Choosing A Concentration
• 1L Electives
• Academic Success
• Exam Policies & Info
• Graduate Planning & Audit System
• Minnesota Law Student Oath
• Refund, Drop/Add Deadlines
• MPRE Information
• Bar-tested Subjects
• Bar Information Video Clips
• Student Organizations
• Wellness & Wellbeing
• Dean's Reception
• Student Directory
• Administrative Policies
• Academic Policies
• Student Support & Standards
• Technology Support
• Student Forms
• Contact Student Affairs
• Cancel Class for Low Enrollment
• Seating Charts
• Student Attendance Issues
• Student Registration Faculty Guide
• Documenting Incomplete Grade
• Faculty Grade Submission
• Feedback to Students on Exams
• Final Exam Guidelines
• Midterm Exam Guidelines
• Faculty news submissions
• Op-Ed guidelines
• Submit Faculty Expertise
• SSRN Instructions
• Judicial Clerkship Letters
• AV Request Form
• Design Request Form
• Designers, Photographers and Writers
• Digital Banners
• Email Banners
• Law School Logos
• Press Release Template
• Event Resources
• University Event-Related Links
• PowerPoint Templates
• Faculty Works in Progress
• International Law Workshops
• Legal History Workshops
• Public Law Workshops
• Squaretable Schedule
• Copy Machines
• Phones/Voicemail
• Security Monitors
• Transportation Services
• U Card Office
• Building Maps
• Finance Staff
• Travel & Chrome River
• Compliance & Reporting
• Employee Engagement
• Hiring Resources
• Performance Management
• Known Issues
• What's New in D9
• Paragraph Types
• Link Styles
• Layout Options
• WYSIWYG Toolbar
• Flat Screen Sign Request
• Ed Tech SLA
• Law School LISTSERVs
• Zoom Profile Photos
• Zoom Backgrounds
• Networking & Careers
• Office of Advancement Staff
• Alumni News
• 5-Year Reunion
• 10-Year Reunion
• 15-Year Reunion
• 20-Year Reunion
• 25-Year Reunion
• 30-Year Reunion
• 35-Year Reunion
• 40-Year Reunion
• 45-Year Reunion
• 50-Year Reunion
• 55-Year Reunion
• Recently Admitted
• 1888 Society
• Reunion Giving
• 2023 Donors
• 2023 Participating PAW Firms
• 2021-22 Lockhart Members
• 2022-23 Lockhart Members
• 2023-24 Lockhart Members
• Class Gift Program
• Driven Campaign
• Special Campaigns

Trump unable to finance an appeal bond for at least $450 million, lawyers say

Trump and the trump organization have been unable to get an insurer that issues court bonds to accept property as collateral.

NEW YORK — Donald Trump has failed to finance an appeal bond for more than $450 million to cover a judgment in the New York attorney general’s business fraud case against him and is seeking a reprieve from an appellate court to keep the state from seizing assets, according to a court filing by his attorneys on Monday.

The former president’s lawyers said in the filing that Trump and the Trump Organization, the real estate, hospitality and golf resort company he solely owns, have been unable to get a surety company, an insurer that issues court bonds, to accept property as collateral — stalling any efforts to obtain a bond with a week before the state might begin collecting.

“Critical among these challenges is not just the inability and reluctance of the vast majority of sureties to underwrite a bond for this unprecedented sum, but, even more significantly, the unwillingness of every surety bond provider approached by Defendants to accept real estate as collateral,” Alan Garten, the Trump company’s general counsel, wrote in a sworn submission.

Garten said Trump and the company approached 30 surety companies through four brokers, proposing combinations of liquid and real estate assets, without success. None of them were willing to accept real estate collateral for appeal bonds, he said, noting that Trump and the company have faced “insurmountable difficulties” in exhaustive efforts to secure a bond for the full amount necessary.

Barring financial or court developments, Trump, the likely Republican nominee against President Biden in the 2024 election , could see New York state officials take steps toward seizing his real estate and other assets next week.

The legal team behind Trump recently failed to get an emergency appeals judge to issue a stay of enforcement on the judgment as the 30-day unofficial deadline the attorney general gave the company to fulfill its appeal bond obligation looms. . That judge also rejected an offer of a $100 million bond in lieu of the full amount. A full panel will soon examine the same issues.

Trump’s financial outlook appears significantly jeopardized by the pending bond issue and the massive judgment looming over him, which remains unresolved less than two weeks after Trump posted a $91 million bond to hold off enforcement in a defamation lawsuit he lost to advice columnist E. Jean Carroll.

Such large civil judgments are more commonly seen in litigation involving corporations or other major financial institutions. For the family-run Trump Organization, which owns and manages Trump’s real estate and makes up the vast majority of his personal wealth, quickly finding such a large amount of cash or other available assets has proved exceedingly difficult.

Barring a court stay, Trump will need to post a bond of about $464 million by Monday — the day a month-long grace period offered by New York Attorney General Letitia James’s expires. If a bond is posted before the window closes, it would have the effect of imposing a stay on James’s enforcement while Trump’s appeal is pending because the surety company would have guaranteed future payment. If a bond isn’t posted, James’s office can begin enforcing the judgment by starting the process of seizing his assets.

Trump’s lawyers called it a “practical impossibility” to post a bond under the circumstances.

Trump’s lawyers in the case asked for permission to send the bond fulfillment issue to the state’s highest court for review should the New York Supreme Court Appellate Division decline to stay enforcement of the monetary judgment. The team previously won a temporary stay of a non-monetary condition which would remove Trump’s adult sons Eric and Donald Trump Jr. from running the company.

Trump, his company and several current and former executives were found civilly liable in Manhattan state court this year for engaging in illegal acts to defraud banks and insurance companies by lying about the true value of his assets to falsely obtain profits and savings in business over a decade.

James, who brought the case, said Trump misstated the value of his properties and other assets by up to $2.2 billion a year from 2011 to 2021.

Surety companies are requiring Trump to put up the entire amount needed for the bond in collateral, according to the defense filing. Legal experts said that a likelihood of the appeal failing is the main reason companies would mandate such terms.

“Insurance companies in appeals cases tend to want the full amount of the judgment as collateral,” said Adam Pollock, an attorney who formerly served as assistant attorney general in New York.

Surety companies generally accept only cash or an irrevocable letter of credit as collateral, according to JD Weisbrot, who has worked in the business for more than 20 years and is a managing director at the underwriting firm Risk Strategies.

Someone with assets like Trump, who has the majority of his fortune tied up in real estate, would ideally go through a bank to get that letter of credit, Weisbrot said. A bank would also likely want the full amount of the bond in collateral but might accept many more types of collateral, including deeds to real estate, fine art or other assets, he said. That could free up funds for someone who owns lots of property.

“My feeling is a bank would likely take a similar position as a surety and likely also require a dollar-for-dollar amount in collateral,” he said. “But a bank is more flexible as a financial situation than a surety would be in terms of the type of collateral.”

Trump has few existing relationships with big banks on Wall Street, according to a financial disclosure he filed with the government in August as part of his candidacy. Deutsche Bank, which provided him with a number of loans that fueled the expansion of his business before he entered politics, no longer has any loans with him.

When the state attorney general gets the green light from a court to enforce a financial judgment, state law allows her office to instruct law enforcement to deliver execution notices — similar to subpoenas — to banks or other parties that hold a defendant’s assets.

Staff from the New York City Marshals (or the Sheriff’s Office if the asset is real estate) then go to collect the debtor’s assets, Pollock said. That can include draining the defendant’s bank accounts by requesting cashier’s checks for the full amounts or, in some cases, going to defendants’ homes or businesses and hauling away expensive cars or pieces of artwork.

In some instances, enforcement might require the state attorney general’s office to spend time determining where a defendant’s assets are located. But because the case with Trump revolved around his assets and chronicled them in great detail, James’s office likely already has much or all of the information it needs.

“They know where his assets are — the whole case was about his assets,” Pollock said.

That would make enforcement much easier, Pollock suggested, particularly for bank accounts that are in his name or the name of his business units that were named as defendants.

“They could get that money tomorrow,” he said.

O’Connell reported from Washington. Josh Dawsey in Washington contributed to this report.

• Trump wins partial stay of fraud judgment, allowed to post $175 million March 25, 2024 Trump wins partial stay of fraud judgment, allowed to post $175 million March 25, 2024
• What could happen as Trump faces deadline on half-billion-dollar bond March 23, 2024 What could happen as Trump faces deadline on half-billion-dollar bond March 23, 2024
• Trump claims he has $500 million in cash, undercutting his lawyers March 22, 2024 Trump claims he has $500 million in cash, undercutting his lawyers March 22, 2024