A “Sample Letter to Increase Merit Award for College” is a letter you write to your college. You are asking for more financial aid. This is usually because your circumstances have changed. Perhaps your family’s financial situation has worsened.
This article provides sample letters. We’ve got templates to help you. These samples will guide you. You can adapt them to your specific situation.
Use these samples as a starting point. Craft a compelling request. Increase your chances of getting more financial aid. Let’s get started!
Sample Letter To Increase Merit Award For College
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Scholarship Committee
[Name of University/College]
[Address of University/College]
Subject: Request for Reconsideration of Merit Award
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to respectfully request a reconsideration of the merit award I received for the upcoming academic year. I am incredibly grateful for the initial award and the opportunity to attend [Name of University/College].
Since applying, my academic standing has significantly improved. I recently [mention specific achievement, e.g., “achieved a perfect score on the [Name of Exam]”, “won first place in the [Name of Competition]”, “completed an independent research project on [Topic]”]. I believe these accomplishments demonstrate my continued dedication to academic excellence.
I am highly motivated to contribute positively to the [Name of University/College] community. A larger merit award would significantly ease the financial burden of tuition and allow me to focus more intently on my studies and extracurricular activities, such as [mention specific activities, e.g., “participating in the debate club”, “volunteering at the local hospital”, “working on a campus sustainability initiative”].
Thank you for considering my request. I have attached [mention any supporting documents, e.g., “an updated transcript”, “letters of recommendation”, “award certificates”] for your review. I am available to discuss this further at your convenience.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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How to Write Letter To Increase Merit Award For College
Craft a Compelling Subject Line
Your subject line is the initial enticement. Eschew generic phrases. Instead, opt for specificity. For instance:
- Ineffective: Merit Award Increase Request
- Effective: Request for Reconsideration – [Your Name] – [Student ID]
- Even Better: Merit Scholarship Appeal – Exceptional Extracurriculars – [Your Name]
A tailored subject line heightens the likelihood of your email being opened punctually.
Address the Salutation with Exactitude
Steer clear of vague greetings. Determine the correct recipient’s name and title. This demonstrates diligence and respect. Examples:
- Incorrect: To Whom It May Concern
- Acceptable: Dear Scholarship Committee,
- Preferred: Dear Dr. Eleanor Vance, Director of Financial Aid,
Employ a formal tone; familiarity can be misconstrued.
Articulate Your Initial Gratitude and Merit
Commence by expressing sincere appreciation for the initial merit award. Then, succinctly reiterate your qualifications. Highlight academic achievements, test scores, and any distinguishing attributes. For example:
- “I am profoundly grateful for the initial merit award of $[Amount] offered by [College Name]. My GPA of [GPA], coupled with a [Test Score] on the [Test Name], reflects my unwavering commitment to academic excellence.”
Avoid bombast; present facts succinctly and authoritatively.
Expound Upon Extenuating Circumstances or New Accomplishments
This is the crux of your plea. Did your family’s financial situation precipitously change? Have you garnered new accolades since your initial application? Provide substantive evidence.
- Financial Hardship: “Since my initial application, my family has encountered unforeseen financial adversity due to [Brief Explanation]. I have attached documentation to substantiate this claim.”
- New Achievements: “Subsequent to receiving the initial offer, I was awarded [Award Name] for [Achievement]. Documentation is enclosed.”
Be transparent and forthright; opacity erodes credibility.
Emphasize Your Commitment to the Institution
Articulate precisely why you are drawn to this particular college. Mention specific programs, faculty, or opportunities that resonate with your academic or professional aspirations. Generic praise lacks persuasiveness.
- “The renowned [Department Name] department at [College Name], particularly the research conducted by Professor [Professor’s Last Name] in [Research Area], is uniquely aligned with my intellectual pursuits.”
Demonstrate genuine interest; admissions committees appreciate sincere enthusiasm.
Propose a Specific, Reasonable Increase
Avoid vagueness. Suggest a specific amount or percentage increase that would ameliorate your financial constraints. Provide a rationale for your request.
- “An increase of $[Amount] would substantially mitigate the financial burden and enable me to fully immerse myself in the academic rigors of [College Name].”
- “A [Percentage]% increase would bridge the financial gap, allowing me to accept your offer and contribute meaningfully to the campus community.”
A well-reasoned request showcases prudence.
Close with Gratitude and Contact Information
Reiterate your gratitude for their consideration and provide your contact information for expedient communication. Maintain a professional tone.
- “Thank you for considering my appeal. I can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address]. I eagerly anticipate your response.”
End with a tone of respectful optimism.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Merit Award Increase Request
Navigating the financial aspects of college can be complex. This FAQ section provides guidance on drafting a compelling letter to request an increase in your merit-based financial aid award.
1. When is the best time to send a merit award increase request?
The optimal time is after you’ve received financial aid offers from all the colleges you’ve applied to, typically in late spring, but before the enrollment deposit deadline.
2. What information should be included in the letter?
Clearly state your request, highlight your academic achievements and extracurricular involvement, mention any significant changes in your family’s financial situation, and express your strong desire to attend the institution.
3. Should I mention competing offers from other colleges?
Yes, you can tactfully mention more generous offers from comparable institutions as leverage, emphasizing your preference for their college if the financial aspect can be addressed.
4. Who should I address the letter to?
Address the letter to the financial aid office or the specific financial aid officer assigned to your case. You can usually find this information on the college’s website or in your financial aid award letter.
5. What is the best way to send the letter?
Submitting the letter via email is generally acceptable. Follow up with a phone call to ensure it was received and to inquire about the timeline for a response.