How to Write an Appeal Letter for Financial Aid (With Samples)

If you were counting on financial aid to pay for your schooling, you might be disappointed to hear that your application was denied. The same can be said for when you receive less funding than you thought you would. Nonetheless, rather than worry about the future, you can send the funding committee an appeal letter to challenge their decision.

An appeal letter for financial aid is a formal letter written by an applicant when their financial aid is denied or reduced to convince the governing body to re-evaluate their application. It tries to persuade the reader to consider a recent development or overlooked fact, which could qualify you for aid.

Was your financial aid award not what you expected? Here is everything you need to know on how to write an appeal letter for financial aid.

A financial aid appeal letter is not just reserved for when the reviewing body denies your application. You can also write it if you believe the amount awarded is insufficient or some facts have changed that should be considered in your application. Your letter should contain the following information:

• The school address, which should include the recipient’s full name
• A clear and brief subject line
• An introduction in the first paragraph to provide the reader with context
• A body that details your reasons for appealing the financial aid decision. This part should be detailed and factual and should mention all circumstances that necessitate the appeal.
• A reference to all the attached documents that support your appeal
• Your name and contact information

Most appeal letters get rejected because they end up sounding like a list of orders. The following tips should help you get your message across effectively but politely:

• Only include facts and avoid dramatizing or exaggerating the situation.
• Be specific when mentioning dates and names.
• Always mention and include all required or necessary documentation.
• Keep your message short and to the point.
• Avoid trying to manipulate the reader by begging, flattering them, or making exaggerated promises.
• Always proofread your letter and check for errors.
• Before sending your letter, make and keep a few copies.

Appeal Letter for Financial Aid (Word Template)

Appeal letters are usually based on new facts, which means you can’t send your previous application to the funding committee. You must prove that they overlooked some facts or that something happened recently that changes your eligibility.

When drafting this letter, mention all the acts of your argument precisely and chronologically. Provide all supporting documents and make sure to mention them in your message. It is also important that you maintain a polite and professional tone throughout the letter.