Tips to Close Your Financial Aid Gap
Many students find that their Student Aid Index (SAI) is not 
realistic or that their SAI and financial aid awards do not cover 
their total college costs. In those cases, students can be left with 
an unmet need or “gap” to fill. Check out the following seven 
strategies for managing the gap: 
#1
Appeal your financial aid offer. If your financial aid offer falls short or 
your financial situation has changed, contact a financial aid officer at the college. 
Explain your situation and ask for a review of your financial aid package in an 
email to the financial aid counselor. Many schools provide an appeal form.
#2
Apply for additional scholarships and grants. Application deadlines 
vary, so do not assume that deadlines have passed. See pp. 53-54 for help 
finding scholarships.
#5
Get a part-time job. Many students work while in college. Search for  
employment opportunities that also will allow you to stay on top of your schoolwork.
#6
Become a resident assistant or community assistant. These 
jobs in college residence halls can provide free room and board, which can save 
you up to 50% of your cost of attending college after freshman year. While you 
are saving money, you also will be developing communication and leadership 
skills, and building your resumé. 
#7
Reduce your expenses. While you cannot control tuition, fees, room 
and board, you can control your other costs. Look for places to cut back, such 
as eating in restaurants, entertainment, and cell phone usage. Then create a 
reasonable budget and stick to it.
#4
Revisit Federal Work-Study options. If you did not indicate interest in 
Federal Work-Study on your FAFSA, contact your financial aid office to see if you 
are eligible. Look at your college’s website to find out what positions are open.
Research your college’s payment plan. Many colleges allow you to 
pay tuition in installments.
#3  
Paying for College
51
 
For Undocumented Students and 
Students with Undocumented 
Parents/Guardians 
There are many misconceptions about 
whether and how undocumented students 
and students with undocumented parents 
or guardians should apply for financial aid. 
Current guidance indicates:
• Students with undocumented parents  
or guardians can complete the FAFSA.
• Undocumented students cannot complete 
the FAFSA, but they can complete the 
CSS Profile.
• Some colleges offer full-need financial  
aid for undocumented students, such 
as the University of Pennsylvania and 
Swarthmore College.
• The Community College of Philadelphia 
has great opportunities for undocumented 
students.
• Undocumented students must pay out-of-
state tuition rates to attend state colleges.
• Find more information at https://www.
higheredimmigrationportal.org/resources/
fafsa-hub/
Pathways  
 to  Prosperity
Penn State University

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