Financial Aid Appeal: How and When to Ask For More Support
Filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is essential for college students each year. This form helps determine how much financial aid you can receive based on your income, family size, and other key factors.
But what if your circumstances change or your proposed aid package doesn’t cover your needs? You’re not alone. Many students face hurdles with aid that don’t reflect their real-life challenges. Under certain conditions, schools can reconsider your aid package.
According to March 2025 research by College Aid Pro, 75% of students at private colleges and 25% at public colleges successfully appealed their financial aid. These appeals typically yield an additional $3,000-$5,000 per year, though some result in awards exceeding $50,000.
This guide covers how to update your FAFSA, write a strong appeal letter, and what to do if your appeal is denied.
Can You Appeal a Financial Aid Decision?
Students may appeal their financial aid award if their circumstances have changed significantly or their current aid package doesn’t reflect their financial needs. The following section explores some common reasons students submit appeals.
Job Loss
If you or your parents recently lost a job, your financial picture may have changed drastically. You can request that they adjust your aid package to reflect this change.
Homelessness
If you’re experiencing homelessness, you may be considered an independent student, which can increase your eligibility for aid.
Lower Income
Even if you didn’t lose your job, switching to a lower-paying role or reducing hours can affect your finances. That’s reason enough to appeal.
Medical Bills
Major medical expenses can strain your budget. Notify your school if you face any significant healthcare costs.
Childcare Costs
Raising a child while pursuing an education can be financially challenging. A new baby or increased childcare expenses may qualify you for more aid.
How To Appeal Your Financial Aid
Each school has its own rules, but the appeal process for a financial aid package usually involves a few steps.
- 1
Review Your Situation
Before starting an appeal, consider any changes in your financial situation. Sometimes, you can solve the issue by picking up part-time work or applying for college scholarships.
- 2
Talk to the Financial Aid Office
Your school’s financial aid team can walk you through the appeal process. Come prepared with questions and be honest about your situation.
- 3
Gather Documentation
You’ll need proof to back up your appeal. This evidence could include pay stubs or a termination letter, tax forms or W-2s, and medical bills or insurance claims. Make copies of all documents before submitting to ensure you can reuse them as needed.
- 4
Write Your Appeal Letter
Your letter should be:
- Addressed to a real person (if possible)
- Clear and to the point
- Honest about your situation
- Specific about the amount you need
- Thankful for their time and energy
- 5
Submit Everything on Time
Determine if your school accepts appeals by email, mail, or in person. Be sure to meet all deadlines — a late submission can hurt your chances.
Tips for Writing an Appeal Letter
You can increase your chances of a successful appeal by using straightforward language in your financial aid appeal letter, providing supporting evidence, and maintaining a professional tone. Consider the following strategies as you write a letter and present a convincing argument.
- Be Direct: Clearly explain your situation and ask for what you need upfront.
- Include Proof: Highlight key details in your documents to make review easier.
- Stay Professional: Use a formal tone and structure, similar to how you would for a job application.
- Act Fast: Schools have limited aid funds, so you must apply before money runs out.
Financial Aid Appeal Letter Sample
The following letter offers an example of how to appeal your aid package if your family’s financial situation has changed since completing the FAFSA. This guidance is informed by the National Society of High School Scholars.
To Whom It May Concern,
Thank you for the financial aid package offered to attend [College Name]. I’m honored to have the opportunity, as [College Name] is my top choice. However, I’m writing to respectfully appeal my financial aid offer for the 2025-2026 academic year.
After submitting my FAFSA, my financial situation has changed significantly. My father’s employer recently laid him off, and our income has dropped by nearly 40%. Now, covering the remaining balance of my tuition and housing — approximately $4,500 — has become very difficult.
I’ve attached a letter from his former employer and recent tax documents to confirm this change. I would be extremely grateful if the school’s Financial Aid Office could reconsider my award in light of this new information.
Thank you for your time and support. I truly value the opportunity to pursue a degree at [College Name], and any additional assistance would greatly help my family and me.
Sincerely,
Susie Sample
Appeal vs. FAFSA Correction: What’s the Difference?
While they may sound similar, appealing your financial aid and correcting your FAFSA are different. Both involve updating your financial information, but they serve different purposes:
- Updating your FAFSA allows you to fix mistakes and communicate any major life changes, like a new family size or dependency status.
- Appealing your aid requires you to ask your school to reconsider your award and is often based on new information that you provide after filing a FAFSA form.
What FAFSA Info Can You Update?
If your FAFSA contains incorrect or outdated information, it’s important to fix it as soon as possible. You can log in to the Student Aid website using your Federal Student Aid ID to make the necessary updates. You’re allowed to correct things like:
- Your dependency status
- Household size
- Adding or removing a contributor
- Number of students in college
- School selections
- Any factual errors or typos
You typically cannot update your financial information after submission, unless it was incorrect. However, if your situation has changed, you can contact your school and request that they adjust your aid through a professional judgment review, provided you have the proper documentation.
You may be able to make certain changes during the school year, but not all updates are allowed after submission.
What If Your Appeal Is Denied?
If your financial aid appeal is denied, don’t worry — you still have options. Here are some other ways to help cover the cost of college:
Private Student Loans
Banks and credit unions offer student loans, though interest rates are usually higher than those included with federal loans. Always read the fine print before borrowing.
Scholarships
Many companies, nonprofits, and organizations offer scholarships based on major, GPA, background, and more.
Tuition Reimbursement
Are you already working? Your employer might help pay for school if your degree aligns with your career. Check with your employer’s human resources department for guidance.
Part-Time Jobs
A job won’t cover everything, but it can make a big difference: on-campus jobs, gig work, and freelancing offer flexible options.
Paid Internships
These opportunities can help you gain experience and earn money. Check your college’s career center or internship job boards for available openings.
