Understanding Financial Aid Appeals
A financial aid appeal letter is a formal request to a college or university to reconsider your financial aid package. This is typically done when your or your family’s financial circumstances have changed significantly since you initially applied for aid. Common reasons for appeal include job loss, unexpected medical expenses, divorce, or other significant changes in income or assets. A well-written appeal can lead to increased grant money, scholarships, or a lower-interest loan, making college more affordable.
Key Elements of a Successful Appeal Letter
Your financial aid appeal letter should be clear, concise, and professional. Start by addressing the letter to the appropriate financial aid officer (find their name and title if possible). Clearly state your request for additional aid and explain the specific circumstances that warrant a reconsideration. Provide supporting documentation, such as tax returns, medical bills, or termination letters. Be sure to express your gratitude for their time and consideration and reiterate your strong desire to attend the institution.
Tips for Writing a Strong Appeal
Before you start writing, gather all relevant documentation. Be specific and quantify your financial hardship whenever possible (e.g., “Our income decreased by $20,000 due to job loss”). Be polite and respectful, even if you’re frustrated. Proofread carefully for any errors in grammar or spelling. Follow up with the financial aid office to check on the status of your appeal. Don’t be afraid to ask for specific types of aid, such as grants or scholarships, rather than just a general increase. Highlight any academic achievements or extracurricular involvement that make you a valuable addition to the student body.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid being vague or emotional in your appeal. Stick to the facts and provide concrete evidence to support your claims. Don’t blame the financial aid office for your situation. Focus on presenting your circumstances in a clear and professional manner. Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your appeal. The sooner you submit your letter, the more time the financial aid office has to review your case. Don’t assume that an appeal will automatically be granted. It is a request, not a guarantee.
Financial Aid Appeal Letter Samples
Here are 22 sample letters. Remember to adapt them to your specific situation.
Sample 1: Job Loss
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Office,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package for the [Fall/Spring] semester of [Year]. My family has recently experienced a significant financial hardship due to my [mother’s/father’s] job loss on [Date]. Prior to this, [he/she] was employed at [Company Name] and earned approximately $[Annual Salary]. We have attached a copy of [his/her] termination letter as supporting documentation.
This sudden loss of income has made it extremely difficult for us to afford the cost of tuition. I am highly motivated to continue my studies at [University Name] and am confident I can maintain my academic performance. I am requesting that you reconsider my financial aid package to include additional grant or scholarship funding to help offset this unexpected financial burden.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 2: Medical Expenses
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Office,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package for the [Fall/Spring] semester of [Year] due to significant and unexpected medical expenses. My [Mother/Father/Sibling] was recently diagnosed with [Medical Condition] and has incurred substantial medical bills. We have attached copies of these bills, totaling approximately $[Amount], as supporting documentation.
These expenses have placed a significant strain on our family’s finances, making it difficult to cover the cost of my tuition. I am a dedicated student and am determined to continue my education at [University Name]. I am requesting a re-evaluation of my financial aid package to include additional grant or loan assistance to help alleviate this financial burden.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 3: Change in Family Circumstances (Divorce)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Office,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package for the upcoming [Fall/Spring] semester. My parents recently finalized their divorce on [Date], which has significantly impacted our family’s financial situation. As a result, my household income has decreased substantially.
Previously, both of my parents contributed to my educational expenses. However, with the divorce, my [Mother/Father] is now solely responsible for my tuition. I have attached a copy of the divorce decree as supporting documentation. This situation has created a considerable financial hardship for my family.
I am committed to my studies at [University Name] and am seeking a re-evaluation of my financial aid to reflect our current financial circumstances. I am requesting additional grant or scholarship funding to bridge the gap created by this change.
Thank you for your understanding and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 4: Unexpected Property Damage
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Office,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package for the [Fall/Spring] semester of [Year] due to unexpected property damage to our home. On [Date], [describe the event: e.g., a fire, flood, storm] caused significant damage, requiring costly repairs. We have attached documentation from our insurance company and repair estimates totaling approximately $[Amount].
While our insurance is covering some of the costs, we are responsible for a substantial deductible and other uncovered expenses. This unforeseen situation has significantly impacted our ability to afford my tuition at [University Name].
I am a dedicated student with a strong academic record, and I am committed to continuing my education. I am requesting that you reconsider my financial aid package to include additional grant assistance to help offset these unexpected expenses.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 5: Decrease in Business Income
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Office,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package for the [Fall/Spring] semester of [Year] due to a significant decrease in our family’s business income. [Describe the business and the reason for the decline: e.g., My parents own a small retail store that has experienced a sharp decline in sales due to increased competition from online retailers.] We have attached documentation, including [e.g., profit and loss statements, tax returns], showing a decrease in income of approximately [Percentage]% compared to last year.
This decrease in income has made it challenging for us to afford the cost of my tuition. I am a hardworking student and am eager to continue my studies at [University Name]. I am requesting a re-evaluation of my financial aid package to include additional grant or scholarship funding to help bridge this financial gap.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 6: Support of Other Family Members
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Office,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package for the [Fall/Spring] semester of [Year] due to our family’s financial responsibility for supporting other family members. Specifically, we are providing financial assistance to my [Grandparents/Other Relatives] who are [Describe their situation: e.g., elderly and require assistance with medical expenses and living costs]. We provide approximately $[Amount] per month to support them. We have attached documentation, including [e.g., bank statements, medical bills], to verify our expenses.
This financial obligation places a significant strain on our budget, making it difficult to afford my tuition. I am a dedicated student with a strong academic record, and I am committed to continuing my education at [University Name]. I am requesting a re-evaluation of my financial aid package to include additional grant or scholarship funding to help offset these expenses.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 7: Death of a Parent/Guardian
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Office,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package for the [Fall/Spring] semester of [Year] due to the recent passing of my [Mother/Father/Guardian] on [Date]. This loss has had a significant emotional and financial impact on my family. Prior to their passing, they were [Describe their role in the household and financial contributions]. We have attached a copy of the death certificate as supporting documentation.
The loss of their income and support has created a substantial financial hardship, making it difficult for me to continue my studies at [University Name]. I am a dedicated student and am determined to pursue my education despite these challenging circumstances. I am requesting a re-evaluation of my financial aid package to include additional grant or scholarship funding to help alleviate this financial burden.
Thank you for your understanding and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 8: Increased Cost of Living
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Office,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package for the [Fall/Spring] semester of [Year] due to a significant increase in the cost of living in our area. [Describe the specific increase and its impact: e.g., Rent prices in our city have risen dramatically in the past year, making it increasingly difficult to afford housing]. We have attached documentation, including [e.g., news articles, rent comparisons], to support this claim.
This increase in living expenses has strained our family’s finances, making it difficult to afford my tuition at [University Name]. I am a hardworking student and am eager to continue my studies. I am requesting a re-evaluation of my financial aid package to include additional grant or loan assistance to help offset these increased costs.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 9: Parent Enrolling in College
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Office,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package for the [Fall/Spring] semester of [Year]. My [Mother/Father] has recently enrolled in college to [Describe their reason for returning to school: e.g., obtain a degree to improve their job prospects]. This has created an additional financial burden for our family, as they are now incurring tuition expenses and may have reduced income due to their studies. We have attached documentation, including their college enrollment verification, to support this claim.
This new expense has made it more difficult for us to afford my tuition at [University Name]. I am a dedicated student and I am determined to continue my education. I am requesting that you reconsider my financial aid package to include additional grant or scholarship funding to help offset this additional expense.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 10: Loss of Child Support/Alimony
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Office,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package for the [Fall/Spring] semester of [Year]. We have recently experienced a loss of [Child Support/Alimony] payments due to [Explain the reason for the loss: e.g., My father’s job loss, My mother’s remarriage]. These payments were a significant source of income for our household, and their loss has created a financial hardship. We have attached documentation, including [e.g., court orders, termination letters], to support this claim.
The loss of this income has made it difficult for us to afford my tuition at [University Name]. I am a hardworking student, and I am committed to continuing my education. I am requesting a re-evaluation of my financial aid package to include additional grant or scholarship funding to help offset the loss of these payments.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 11: Student’s Own Medical Expenses
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Office,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package for the [Fall/Spring] semester of [Year] due to my own unexpected medical expenses. I was recently diagnosed with [Medical Condition] which requires ongoing treatment and medication. I have attached copies of my medical bills and a letter from my doctor as supporting documentation, totaling approximately $[Amount].
These medical expenses have created a significant financial burden, making it difficult for me to afford my tuition and living expenses while attending [University Name]. I am a dedicated student and am eager to continue my studies. I am requesting a re-evaluation of my financial aid package to include additional grant or loan assistance to help alleviate this financial strain.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 12: Unexpected Travel Expenses
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Office,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package for the [Fall/Spring] semester of [Year] due to unexpected and significant travel expenses. My [Grandparent/Close Relative] has recently become seriously ill and requires frequent visits from our family. They live in [City, State], which necessitates [Plane/Train/Long Distance Driving] trips. I have attached supporting documentation, including [Medical documentation, travel receipts], showing approximately $[Amount] spent on travel.
These travel costs were unplanned and have strained our family’s finances, making it difficult to afford my tuition at [University Name]. I am committed to my education and am requesting a reconsideration of my financial aid package. Additional grant or loan assistance would greatly help alleviate this unexpected financial burden.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 13: Elementary or Secondary Tuition for Sibling(s)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Office,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package for the [Fall/Spring] semester of [Year]. Our family is incurring significant expenses for the elementary or secondary tuition for my [Number] sibling(s) who attend [Name of School(s)]. We believe a private education is critical for their academic success. We have attached tuition statements as supporting documentation showing approximately $[Amount] per year spent on tuition.
These tuition costs have made it difficult for us to afford my tuition at [University Name]. I am a dedicated student and am committed to continuing my education. I am requesting a re-evaluation of my financial aid package to include additional grant or scholarship funding to help offset these expenses.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 14: Disability Related Expenses
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Office,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package for the [Fall/Spring] semester of [Year] due to significant expenses related to my disability [or that of a family member: specify relationship]. These expenses include [List specific expenses: e.g., specialized medical care, adaptive equipment, transportation costs]. We have attached supporting documentation, including [Medical documentation, receipts for equipment], showing costs of approximately $[Amount] annually.
These disability-related expenses place a significant strain on our finances, making it difficult to afford my tuition at [University Name]. I am a hardworking student, and I am determined to continue my education despite these challenges. I am requesting that you reconsider my financial aid package to include additional grant assistance to help offset these essential expenses.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 15: Significant Investment Losses
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Office,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package for the [Fall/Spring] semester of [Year] due to significant investment losses our family experienced in the past year. [Briefly explain the reason for the losses: e.g., Due to unforeseen market fluctuations, investments held in our retirement account have decreased substantially]. We have attached documentation from our financial advisor detailing these losses, totaling approximately $[Amount].
These investment losses have significantly reduced our available assets, making it more difficult for us to afford my tuition at [University Name]. I am a dedicated student and am committed to continuing my education. I am requesting a re-evaluation of my financial aid package to include additional grant or loan assistance to help offset these losses.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 16: Change in Dependency Status
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Office,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package for the [Fall/Spring] semester of [Year] due to a change in my dependency status. [Explain the reason for the change and how it impacts your financial situation: e.g., I am now considered an independent student due to being emancipated from my parents. I am now responsible for all of my living expenses, including tuition.] I have attached documentation, including [e.g., court orders, proof of address], to support my independent status.
This change in dependency has significantly impacted my ability to afford tuition at [University Name]. I am a hardworking student and am determined to continue my education. I am requesting a re-evaluation of my financial aid package to include additional grant or loan assistance to help me meet my educational expenses.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 17: Forced to Move Due to Unsafe Living Conditions
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Office,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package for the [Fall/Spring] semester of [Year] due to an unexpected move caused by unsafe living conditions in our previous residence. [Describe the unsafe conditions: e.g., Our apartment building had a significant mold infestation, We experienced repeated break-ins]. This forced us to move to a new, more expensive residence. We have attached documentation, including [e.g., photos of the unsafe conditions, police reports, lease agreements], to support our claim.
This unexpected move and the increased cost of housing have placed a significant strain on our finances, making it difficult to afford my tuition at [University Name]. I am a dedicated student, and I am committed to continuing my education. I am requesting a re-evaluation of my financial aid package to include additional grant or loan assistance to help offset these relocation expenses and the increased cost of living.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 18: Change in Employment Status of Student
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Office,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package for the [Fall/Spring] semester of [Year] due to a change in my employment status. [Describe the change and its impact: e.g., I recently had my hours significantly reduced at my part-time job. I have lost my job.] This has resulted in a substantial decrease in my income, which I was relying on to help pay for my tuition and living expenses. I have attached documentation, including [e.g., pay stubs, termination letters], to support my claim.
This loss of income has made it difficult for me to afford my tuition at [University Name]. I am a hardworking student and am determined to continue my education. I am requesting a re-evaluation of my financial aid package to include additional grant or loan assistance to help me meet my educational expenses.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 19: Uninsured Losses Due to Natural Disaster
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Office,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package for the [Fall/Spring] semester of [Year] due to uninsured losses sustained as a result of a natural disaster. [Describe the disaster: e.g., Our home was damaged by a flood, We lost our belongings in a wildfire]. Unfortunately, we did not have insurance coverage for these losses. We have attached documentation, including [e.g., photos of the damage, FEMA reports], to support our claim.
These uninsured losses have created a significant financial burden, making it difficult for us to afford my tuition at [University Name]. I am a dedicated student, and I am committed to continuing my education despite these challenges. I am requesting that you reconsider my financial aid package to include additional grant assistance to help offset these unforeseen expenses.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 20: Caring for a Disabled Family Member
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Office,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package for the [Fall/Spring] semester of [Year] because my family provides full-time care for a disabled family member. [Describe the family member and their needs: e.g., We provide round-the-clock care for my disabled brother, which limits my parents’ ability to work full-time]. This creates a significant financial strain. We have attached documentation, including [e.g., doctor’s letters, disability benefits statements], to support this claim.
The cost of caring for my [Brother/Sister/Parent/Other Relative] has significantly impacted our finances, making it difficult for us to afford my tuition at [University Name]. I am a hardworking student and am determined to continue my education. I am requesting a re-evaluation of my financial aid package to include additional grant or scholarship funding to help us meet our educational expenses while fulfilling our caregiving responsibilities.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 21: Gap Year Expenses (Now Returning)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Office,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package for the [Fall/Spring] semester of [Year], as I am returning to school after taking a gap year. During my gap year, I [Describe what you did during your gap year and any financial implications: e.g., I worked to save money for college, but I also incurred expenses related to living independently]. I have attached documentation of my earnings and expenses from the gap year.
The financial circumstances during my gap year have now made it difficult for me to afford my tuition at [University Name]. I am enthusiastic about resuming my studies and am requesting a re-evaluation of my financial aid package. I would be grateful for additional grant or loan assistance to help me make my educational goals a reality.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 22: Student Loan Debt from Previous Education
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]