How to Appeal Financial Aid to Get More Money for College
Paying for college is a challenge for many students and families, even after receiving a financial aid award. But here’s something many people don’t realize: you can appeal your financial aid offer if your circumstances have changed—or if you simply feel the aid package doesn’t reflect your true need.
Whether you’ve lost income, faced unexpected expenses, or received a better offer from another school, filing a financial aid appeal can potentially lead to thousands more in grants, scholarships, or federal aid. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to appeal financial aid successfully and increase your chances of getting more money.
What Is a Financial Aid Appeal?
A financial aid appeal is a formal request to your college’s financial aid office asking them to reconsider your aid package based on new information. It gives you the opportunity to explain special circumstances that weren’t reflected on your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or CSS Profile.
Common reasons for appeal include:
- Loss of a parent’s or your own income
- High medical or emergency expenses
- Divorce or separation of parents
- Natural disasters or property loss
- Change in family size (birth, death, or dependency shifts)
- Competing offers from other schools
When Should You Appeal?
Timing is crucial. You should file a financial aid appeal:
- As soon as possible after receiving your award letter
- Immediately after a financial change occurs
- Before the start of the academic year (some schools may have deadlines)
Appealing early increases your chances of receiving additional funds before aid is finalized or disbursed.
What Can You Request More Aid For?
Depending on your situation, you can appeal for more of the following:
- Need-based grants (such as Pell Grants or institutional grants)
- Scholarships (especially merit-based if your academic record is strong)
- Work-study opportunities
- Subsidized federal loans (with better terms than private loans)
Keep in mind, colleges may not always increase aid—but if you present a strong case, many will make adjustments.
How to Appeal Financial Aid: Step-by-Step
Here’s a practical guide to submitting an appeal that gives you the best chance of success.
1. Review Your Award Letter
Start by understanding your current financial aid offer. Check how much is:
- Gift aid (grants/scholarships)
- Federal loans
- Work-study
- Expected Family Contribution (EFC)
This helps you determine how much more support you need and where your gaps lie.
2. Identify a Clear Reason
You’ll need a valid and documented reason for appealing. Common acceptable reasons include:
| Reason | Acceptable? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Job loss | Yes | Provide layoff letter, unemployment info |
| Medical bills | Yes | Include copies of statements or insurance denials |
| Divorce/separation | Yes | Include legal paperwork or separation documentation |
| Increased cost of living | Sometimes | Be specific and attach receipts |
| Competing college offer | Yes | Include a copy of the competing school’s award letter |
| Wanting more aid, no reason | No | Appeals must be based on real, documented changes |
3. Contact the Financial Aid Office
Call or email the office to ask:
- What their appeal process is
- Whether they require a specific financial aid appeal form
- Where to send documentation
Being polite, professional, and prepared will make a positive impression.
4. Write a Financial Aid Appeal Letter
Your appeal letter should be honest, concise, and respectful. Be specific about your change in financial circumstances and request a review.
Key points to include:
- Your name, student ID, and contact info
- A brief explanation of your situation
- Documentation to support your claim
- The amount of aid you’re hoping to receive (if known)
- A thank-you and appreciation for their consideration
Example Opening:
Dear Financial Aid Committee,
I am writing to respectfully request a reconsideration of my financial aid package for the 2025–2026 academic year. Since submitting my FAFSA, my family’s financial situation has significantly changed due to my parent’s job loss in May 2025…
5. Gather and Submit Documentation
This step is critical. Submit official and dated documentation that backs up your claims, such as:
- Termination letters or pay stubs
- Medical bills or insurance documents
- Tax returns or W-2s
- Death certificates or legal separation papers
- Competing award letters
Attach everything clearly with your letter or upload through the school’s financial aid portal.
6. Follow Up Politely
Once submitted, follow up within 1–2 weeks. Ask if your appeal has been received and whether additional documentation is needed. Stay courteous and professional.
Tips to Maximize Your Chances of Success
- Be proactive. Don’t wait until after the semester starts.
- Stay honest. Don’t exaggerate your situation—schools can verify claims.
- Be specific. Vague or emotional appeals without documentation rarely succeed.
- Consider multiple appeals. If your situation changes again later, you may be able to reapply.
- Stay calm. The financial aid staff is there to help—you’re not begging; you’re advocating.
What Happens After You Appeal?
Responses vary by school but generally take 1–3 weeks. You’ll receive:
- A revised aid package (if approved)
- An explanation if the appeal is denied
- Sometimes, a request for more documentation
If your appeal is denied, you still have options like:
- Applying for outside scholarships
- Requesting more student work hours
- Taking out low-interest federal loans
Appealing your financial aid award might feel intimidating, but it’s a smart move when your situation warrants it. Colleges want to support students who are serious about their education—and many have emergency funds or additional grants available if you just ask.