How do I ask for more merit aid law school?

Asked by: Mrs. Elizabeth Moore I  |  Last update: December 31, 2025
Score: 4.6/5 (56 votes)

If a school doesn't lay out a formal reconsideration procedure—and sometimes, even if they do—we recommend that you call the admissions office. Simply introduce yourself, tell them that you're very interested in attending, and ask how you can request a scholarship reconsideration. Be polite, earnest, and honest.

How do I appeal for more merit aid?

Since you're asking for a merit scholarship increase, you'll write to the admission office, as opposed to a request for reconsideration of need-based aid eligibility, which is written to the financial aid office. If your child has been working with a particular admission officer, then write to that person.

Can you ask for more merit scholarship money?

First off, you should know that it is always fine to go back and ask the college for more funds. There is no downside. But, you need to be prepared to have a school stay firm in their scholarship amount. There are some schools that just flat out will not give you more money.

Can you negotiate your law school scholarship?

Each law school has a different policy when it comes to negotiation. Some schools purport to have a no-negotiation policy, while others say they'll review offers from peer schools. When you do reach out to a school to begin the scholarship negotiation process, make sure you have a particular number in mind.

How do I get more merit scholarships?

Contact your school's admissions office and complete the necessary paperwork. Ask the school if it can offer more scholarship money to make your attendance more feasible. Applicants should use family circumstances as compelling reasons for the school to reconsider.

How to Negotiate Your College Tuition? (5 Steps)

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Can you increase your scholarship?

Schools are not required to increase your merit scholarship amount, but it doesn't hurt to reach out and ask the question. Be open about your finances, be humble about your inability to make their offer work, and be grateful for what they offer you; whether it increases or not.

What is a good GPA for merit scholarship?

Since the minimum GPA for a full-ride scholarship is usually set at 3.0, a 4.0 is sure to always be above and beyond what's required. Here's how it can boost your chances: Academic Excellence: A 4.0 GPA demonstrates consistent academic excellence, making you an attractive candidate for merit-based scholarships.

How to ask for more financial aid in law school?

You can ask for a specific amount (“If you could increase my total award to $90,000”), ask for a school to match a peer school's offer, or simply ask if they can increase their award. We usually recommend that you ask for a specific amount or a match.

How do you get a merit scholarship for law school?

8 Law School Scholarship Tips
  1. Have a test prep plan. Your LSAT score is an important factor in determining what merit-based scholarships you will be able to attain. ...
  2. Polish your application. ...
  3. Consider early decision. ...
  4. Apply early. ...
  5. Don't rule yourself out. ...
  6. Don't be afraid to negotiate. ...
  7. Know how much you need. ...
  8. Read the fine print.

What LSAT score will get me a scholarship?

Needs-based scholarships don't require a high LSAT score. However, to be considered for a merit-based scholarship, it's wise to have a score close to 170.

How to ask for more merit scholarship money example?

I write to you today with great appreciation for my acceptance to [University Name] and gratitude for my initial scholarship offer. Attending [University Name] is a goal I have worked very hard to achieve and I am thrilled to have been offered a place. However, I am writing to appeal my merit scholarship award.

How much is a lot for a merit scholarship?

You Must Apply for Aid

Merit-based scholarships range from $1,000 at state schools, to full rides at private schools worth as much as $35,000 a year, though most fall somewhere in between. There are websites detailing the awards at hundreds of schools. The average annual award is around $5,000.

Do colleges automatically consider you for merit scholarships?

Some schools automatically consider all applicants for merit scholarships, while others require a separate application.

Can you negotiate for a higher merit scholarship?

Colleges don't often publicize the fact that they negotiate scholarship offers, but, in fact, many do. The bottom line is you don't know until you ask. Good luck, and happy negotiating!

How do you write a strong academic appeal?

Outline for a Well Written Academic Appeal
  1. Describe the extenuating circumstances involved or your reason for appealing. ...
  2. Reference your documentation when answering the question on the appeals form. ...
  3. Explain why the conditions no longer (or have a lesser chance to) pose a threat to satisfactory academic performance.

How do I write an email to ask for a scholarship?

How to write a scholarship application letter
  1. Review the organization's requirements. ...
  2. Include your contact information. ...
  3. Introduce yourself and why you're applying. ...
  4. Discuss your major accomplishments. ...
  5. List your unique skills or qualities. ...
  6. Express your interest in your education or career. ...
  7. Conclude and thank the reader.

Do law schools negotiate scholarships?

While some schools state openly negotiations are not an option (do not even try at these schools), many will entertain a dialogue to assist students with a financially feasible way to pay for school.

How to pay for law school if you're poor?

Financial aid can cover the FULL COST of attendance established by the school you attend, if needed. IF YOU NEED TO BORROW loans for this important investment in your future, the flexibility and safety of the federal student loan programs lets you afford repayment of any federal loans you borrow, regardless of career.

Which country is best to study law?

The US stands as the leading destination for law studies, home to prestigious institutions such as Harvard Law School, Yale Law School, and Stanford Law School. Ranking #1 in quality of education, the US offers comprehensive legal training across specialties like corporate law, public interest law, and technology law.

Is it OK to ask for more financial aid?

Request an aid adjustment.

Sometimes, a family's finances are not accurately reflected on the FAFSA form because of special financial circumstances. Your school will review your request for an aid adjustment based on their specific policy, which is also called a professional judgment.

Which law school has the most financial aid?

The top law school with the best financial aid is St. John's University. While this university has high tuition costs, at $67,800 per year for full-time students and $50,850 a year for part-time students, it offers financial aid that can cover a large portion of these costs.

How to leverage a scholarship in law school?

Analyze the cost of attending one school versus another.

Explain why an increased scholarship offer would make all the difference in choosing where to attend, and agree to withdraw other applications if they give you what you're asking for.

How do I get a full merit scholarship?

GPA and test scores. Most merit-based scholarships require top-notch academic records, so if you're applying for one, aim for a high GPA and strong test scores on the ACT or SAT.

Can a 4.0 GPA get me into Harvard?

The GPA requirements for Harvard University are between 3.9 to 4.1. You will need an incredibly high GPA and will likely be graduating at the top of their class in order to get into Harvard University.

Is 3.7 a good GPA?

A 3.7 GPA is a very good GPA, especially if your school uses an unweighted scale. This means that you've been earning mostly A-s in all of your classes. If you've been taking high level classes and earning a 3.7 unweighted GPA, you're in great shape and can expect to be accepted to many selective colleges.