How To Negotiate Scholarship Offers

Many students don’t realize that scholarship offers can be negotiated just like job offers. If you’ve received multiple scholarships or feel you deserve more financial aid, you can leverage this to increase your funding. Here’s how to effectively negotiate your scholarship offers.

1. Understand Your Leverage

Before negotiating, assess your situation:

• Do you have multiple scholarship offers?
• Has your financial situation changed since applying?
• Are you a highly qualified applicant (strong GPA, leadership roles, extracurriculars)?
• Is the school competing for top students?

If any of these apply to you, you may have a strong case for negotiation.

2. Review Your Scholarship Offers

Carefully compare the financial aid packages you’ve received. Pay attention to:

• Tuition Coverage: Partial vs. full tuition
• Living Expenses: Housing, food, and other costs
• Renewability: Does the scholarship apply for all four years?
• Merit vs. Need-Based Aid: Schools may be more flexible with merit-based awards

3. Contact the Scholarship Office

Reach out to the financial aid or scholarship office via email or phone. Keep your message professional and polite.

Sample Email:

Subject: Request for Scholarship Reconsideration

Dear [Scholarship Committee/Financial Aid Office],

I am truly grateful for the scholarship offer of [$X] from [University Name]. I am very excited about the opportunity to attend and contribute to the university community. However, I have received another offer from [Other University] that provides [$Y] in financial assistance.

While [University Name] is my top choice, the difference in financial aid poses a challenge. I was wondering if there might be any room for an increase in my scholarship amount. I would be happy to provide additional information about my financial situation if needed.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your response.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

4. Be Ready to Justify Your Request

When speaking with the financial aid office, be prepared to:

• Explain why you need additional funding (financial hardship, competing offers, cost of attendance)
• Highlight your academic and extracurricular achievements
• Emphasize why you want to attend their institution

5. Provide Supporting Documents

If your financial situation has changed, submit documentation such as:

• Updated financial aid forms
• Medical bills or unexpected expenses
• Proof of other scholarship offers

6. Be Flexible and Open to Alternatives

If the school cannot increase your scholarship, ask about:

• Work-study opportunities
• Additional grants or departmental scholarships
• Tuition discounts

7. Follow Up Professionally

If you don’t receive a response within a week, send a polite follow-up email. Thank them for their time, regardless of the outcome.