Ol' College Try How to Appeal Early Decision Financial Aid (Without Breaking Your ED Agreement)
Dec 11, 2025
Navigating Early Decision financial aid can be tricky, especially with binding contracts. Explore how to appeal these offers without breaking agreements, and learn why 'negotiate' can derail your appeal. Discover practical tips for assessing aid fairness and hear real-life success stories from families. The hosts discuss the importance of using the right language in appeals and making clear monetary requests. Plus, take the Net Price Calculator Challenge for a chance to win $100 if you uncover discrepancies in college cost estimates!
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Confirm Affordability Before You Sign
- Do the affordability homework before signing an Early Decision agreement so you know whether you can commit.
- Use tools like MyCAP to project costs and avoid being forced into an unaffordable ED commitment.
Use Careful Language In Appeals
- Avoid using the word "negotiate" when appealing financial aid; frame it as a conversation or request.
- Quote the college's Early Decision agreement language to anchor your appeal and request a specific increase.
Request More Time On The Deposit
- Ask the college for an extension on the ED deposit deadline to buy time for an appeal.
- Request a short extension (weeks, not months) and explain you're appealing and need more time.