Appealing a financial aid decision can seem daunting, but it’s often a necessary step to secure the funding you need for college. Life circumstances change, and your initial FAFSA submission might not accurately reflect your current financial situation. A well-crafted financial aid appeal letter provides an opportunity to explain these changes and request a re-evaluation of your aid package. Understanding *what* to include and *how* to present your case is critical for a successful appeal. This guide provides samples and insights to help you write a compelling letter.
Your appeal letter should be clear, concise, and professional. Explain the specific reason for your appeal (e.g., job loss, medical expenses, death in the family) and provide supporting documentation. Be polite and respectful in your tone, and directly request a specific adjustment to your aid package. Highlight any academic achievements or extracurricular involvement to demonstrate your commitment to your education. Remember that financial aid offices are often dealing with a large volume of requests, so clarity and organization are key.
Several factors can warrant a financial aid appeal. Common reasons include significant income reduction, unexpected medical bills, divorce or separation of parents, or the death of a parent or guardian. If there were errors on your FAFSA form, or if you believe your calculated Expected Family Contribution (EFC) doesn’t accurately reflect your ability to pay, an appeal can help correct these discrepancies. Always be honest and transparent in your explanation, and provide credible documentation to support your claims. The more specific and well-documented your appeal, the higher the likelihood of a positive outcome.
Successfully appealing for more financial aid requires presenting a compelling case and showing a clear need. Your letter should be well-structured, easy to read, and free of errors. Focus on the facts and avoid emotional appeals. Before submitting your letter, review it carefully and ask someone else to proofread it for clarity and accuracy. The sample letters below provide templates and inspiration for crafting your own effective financial aid appeal.
14 Sample Financial Aid Appeal Letters
Sample 1: Loss of Income
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Committee,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package for the upcoming academic year. My father, [Father’s Name], recently lost his job at [Company Name] on [Date]. This has resulted in a significant decrease in our household income, making it difficult to afford tuition. I have attached documentation of his job loss. I am requesting a re-evaluation of my financial aid eligibility. Thank you for your consideration.
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 Committee,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package due to significant unexpected medical expenses. My mother, [Mother’s Name], was recently diagnosed with [Medical Condition], and the associated medical bills have placed a considerable strain on our finances. I have attached copies of the medical bills. I am requesting an increase in my financial aid to help cover these costs.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 3: Divorce/Separation
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Committee,
I am writing to request a re-evaluation of my financial aid eligibility due to the recent separation of my parents. This change in family status has significantly altered our financial situation. I have attached a copy of the separation agreement. I am hoping that a re-evaluation will allow me to continue my education.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 4: Death of a Parent
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Committee,
It is with great sadness that I write to inform you of the passing of my father, [Father’s Name], on [Date]. This has created a substantial financial hardship for our family. I have attached a copy of the death certificate. I am appealing for additional financial assistance to help me continue my studies.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 5: FAFSA Error Correction
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Committee,
I am writing to request a correction to my FAFSA application. I mistakenly entered [Incorrect Information] as [Corrected Information]. I believe this error has significantly impacted my financial aid eligibility. I have attached documentation to support this correction.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 6: Loss of Scholarship
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Committee,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package due to the recent loss of my [Scholarship Name] scholarship. This scholarship was revoked because [Reason for Revocation]. I am now facing a significant shortfall in funding for my education. I have attached documentation regarding the scholarship revocation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 7: Increased Living Expenses
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Committee,
I am writing to request a re-evaluation of my financial aid eligibility due to an unexpected increase in my living expenses. My rent has recently increased from [Old Rent] to [New Rent]. I am working part-time, but this increase is making it very difficult to manage my finances. I have attached a copy of my new lease agreement.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 8: Unexpected Car Repair
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Committee,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package because I recently had a significant unexpected car repair. My car is essential for commuting to work and school. The repairs cost [Amount]. I have attached a copy of the repair bill.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 9: Support for Dependents
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Committee,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package. I am providing significant financial support for my [Relationship to Dependent], [Dependent’s Name], who is [Dependent’s Age] years old. I have attached documentation to verify my support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 10: Change in Enrollment Status of Sibling
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Committee,
I am writing to request a re-evaluation of my financial aid eligibility due to a change in my sibling, [Sibling’s Name] enrollment status. Previously, they were enrolled in college, but they are no longer attending, impacting our family’s financial burden. I have attached documentation to confirm their enrollment change.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 11: Change in Tax Bracket
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Committee,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package because my family has moved into a higher tax bracket due to a job promotion, resulting in increased taxes. I have attached documentation to prove this.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 12: Unexpected Legal Fees
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Committee,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package because I have incurred unexpected legal fees. I have attached documentation to prove this.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 13: Natural Disaster
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Committee,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package because my family’s home was damaged in a recent natural disaster. I have attached documentation to prove this.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 14: Special Circumstances
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Financial Aid Office
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Financial Aid Committee,
I am writing to appeal my financial aid package because of special circumstances that were not captured in the FAFSA. [Add a brief and concise explanation]. I have attached documentation to prove this.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Conclusion
Crafting a compelling financial aid appeal letter is a crucial step in bridging the gap between the cost of education and your ability to pay. By clearly articulating your situation, providing supporting documentation, and maintaining a professional tone, you significantly increase your chances of a successful appeal. Use these samples as a starting point, tailoring each letter to your unique circumstances, and remember that honesty and accuracy are paramount. Good luck!