Writing a Simple Financial Aid Request Letter (with Sample)
Use this sample financial aid request letter as a template for your formal request letter.
Last updated on November 28, 2023
A good financial aid request letter can make or break a request for financial aid. Some student financial aid sources have online applications, but some require an application be sent through the mail. For these, the letter should give details of why the applicant requires financial aid.
Additional information should include a list of grades, extracurricular activities and any other evidence that the aid is deserved. The applicant can mention their personal intention to be a successful student.
Financial Assistance
Financial aid may also be requested as a fundraising effort to support a cause, or for financial assistance to ask for an adjustment to a mortgage. For any financial aid request, the purpose for the aid should be expressed first, and the reason the aid is required mentioned second.
Additional information should include a list of grades, extracurricular activities and any other evidence that the aid is deserved. The applicant can mention their personal intention to be a successful student.
Financial Assistance
Financial aid may also be requested as a fundraising effort to support a cause, or for financial assistance to ask for an adjustment to a mortgage. For any financial aid request, the purpose for the aid should be expressed first, and the reason the aid is required mentioned second.
The two main reasons for a student to write a financial aid request letter are to request financial aid or to request a change in the status of existing financial aid. For either type of letter, there are basic common elements. The information pertaining to the reason the applicant is asking for financial aid should be prominent. This is one of the most important aspects of the letter.
First Paragraph
The letter should be addressed to the person responsible for reviewing financial aid applications. The applicant can call the college and learn the name of the right person to address. In the first paragraph, the applicant should state why they are writing for aid.
This is not the place for detail but for a brief overview of the reasons. There are many people writing for financial aid, so it is important in the first paragraph to be compelling with substantive reasons for seeking help.
First Paragraph
The letter should be addressed to the person responsible for reviewing financial aid applications. The applicant can call the college and learn the name of the right person to address. In the first paragraph, the applicant should state why they are writing for aid.
This is not the place for detail but for a brief overview of the reasons. There are many people writing for financial aid, so it is important in the first paragraph to be compelling with substantive reasons for seeking help.
Second Paragraph
The second paragraph should explain the situation that caused the applicant to require financial aid such as a sick parent who is out of work. At this point, it is important to say that there are attached documents to verify the situation.
They can also mention when they expect their financial situation to improve. The applicant should state why they feel they deserve assistance. If the applicant is a student, they can mention why they want to attend this particular university.
Tone Should be Polite and Humble
The tone of the letter should be polite and humble. This is considered the best attitude to take when approaching an individual or institution for financial help.
The language should flow smoothly, so the letter reads easily. Complicated, awkward sentence structure may irritate the reader, so the hope of financial aid goes right in the waste basket.
Here is a sample letter for requesting financial aid. Any enclosures should be copies and not originals. The letter should be sent by certified mail so that the applicant has proof that the letter was sent and received with the date. It is also a good idea to enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope to make it easier to get a quick response.
The second paragraph should explain the situation that caused the applicant to require financial aid such as a sick parent who is out of work. At this point, it is important to say that there are attached documents to verify the situation.
They can also mention when they expect their financial situation to improve. The applicant should state why they feel they deserve assistance. If the applicant is a student, they can mention why they want to attend this particular university.
Tone Should be Polite and Humble
The tone of the letter should be polite and humble. This is considered the best attitude to take when approaching an individual or institution for financial help.
The language should flow smoothly, so the letter reads easily. Complicated, awkward sentence structure may irritate the reader, so the hope of financial aid goes right in the waste basket.
Here is a sample letter for requesting financial aid. Any enclosures should be copies and not originals. The letter should be sent by certified mail so that the applicant has proof that the letter was sent and received with the date. It is also a good idea to enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope to make it easier to get a quick response.
Sample Financial Aid Request Letter
Applicant’s Name
Applicant’s Address
City, State, Zip Code
Student ID Number
DATE
Name of Financial Aid Administrator
Name of Institution or University
Address of above
City, State, Zip Code
RE: Financial Aid
Dear Name of Administrator,
Thank you for the offer of financial aid so that I can attend [XYZ University]. Since I submitted my application, my family’s financial position has drastically changed.
As mentioned in my application, my mother is a single parent. She recently lost her employment due to the downsizing of the company for which she worked.
As a result of this, she will not be able to pay the portion of my college education as we thought at the time I made my application. I have enclosed documents showing her employment position and our monthly expenses. She will be making every effort to find new employment.
I would be very grateful if you could adjust the amount of financial aid you offered me, as it would make the difference between me continuing my education or stopping and getting a job.
My aim is to work hard and graduate from your esteemed institution. I will be happy to send you any more information or fill out any application forms required. I can be reached at [555 123 4567] or at [Name@email.com].
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Applicant’s Name
Applicant’s signature
List of enclosures
By Andre Bradley
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What should I include in a Financial Aid Request Letter?
Answer: In a Financial Aid Request Letter, it's essential to include your personal details (like your name, address, and student ID), a clear explanation of your financial situation, and the specific reasons why you need additional aid. Be honest and concise. Also, mention any changes in your circumstances that have affected your financial situation. Support your claims with documentation if possible, and express your commitment to your education and future goals.
Q: How should I structure my Financial Aid Request Letter?
Answer: Your letter should be structured formally, starting with your address and the date, followed by the address of the financial aid office. Begin with a formal greeting, then move into the body of the letter where you explain your financial situation and the reasons for your request. Conclude with a polite thank you and your signature. Keep the tone respectful and the content clear and to the point.
Q: Can I appeal a financial aid decision with a request letter?
Answer: Yes, you can use a Financial Aid Request Letter to appeal a financial aid decision. In the letter, explain why you believe the decision should be reconsidered, providing any new information or changes in circumstances that weren't considered in the original application. Be respectful and understanding that the decision-makers have constraints but express clearly why additional aid is necessary for you.
Q: What documentation should I attach to my Financial Aid Request Letter?
Answer: Attach any relevant documentation that supports your case. This may include recent tax returns, layoff notices, medical bills, or any other documents that provide evidence of your financial situation and the changes that have occurred. Ensure these documents are well-organized and directly relevant to your request.
Q: How can I make my Financial Aid Request Letter stand out?
Answer: To make your letter stand out, personalize it with your unique situation and be sincere. Clearly articulate your goals and how the financial aid will help you achieve them. Show that you have researched and understand your options, and demonstrate your commitment to utilizing the aid responsibly for your education. Be concise but impactful in your wording.
Answer: In a Financial Aid Request Letter, it's essential to include your personal details (like your name, address, and student ID), a clear explanation of your financial situation, and the specific reasons why you need additional aid. Be honest and concise. Also, mention any changes in your circumstances that have affected your financial situation. Support your claims with documentation if possible, and express your commitment to your education and future goals.
Q: How should I structure my Financial Aid Request Letter?
Answer: Your letter should be structured formally, starting with your address and the date, followed by the address of the financial aid office. Begin with a formal greeting, then move into the body of the letter where you explain your financial situation and the reasons for your request. Conclude with a polite thank you and your signature. Keep the tone respectful and the content clear and to the point.
Q: Can I appeal a financial aid decision with a request letter?
Answer: Yes, you can use a Financial Aid Request Letter to appeal a financial aid decision. In the letter, explain why you believe the decision should be reconsidered, providing any new information or changes in circumstances that weren't considered in the original application. Be respectful and understanding that the decision-makers have constraints but express clearly why additional aid is necessary for you.
Q: What documentation should I attach to my Financial Aid Request Letter?
Answer: Attach any relevant documentation that supports your case. This may include recent tax returns, layoff notices, medical bills, or any other documents that provide evidence of your financial situation and the changes that have occurred. Ensure these documents are well-organized and directly relevant to your request.
Q: How can I make my Financial Aid Request Letter stand out?
Answer: To make your letter stand out, personalize it with your unique situation and be sincere. Clearly articulate your goals and how the financial aid will help you achieve them. Show that you have researched and understand your options, and demonstrate your commitment to utilizing the aid responsibly for your education. Be concise but impactful in your wording.