Can I get more money in Financial Aid than my school allows?

Question:

My FA advisor stated that I can only get about $1500 dollars more than the cost of attendance minus financial aid (which isn't a lot), from an alternative loan, which won't cover the cost of a computer I need to purchase for school. Unfortunately, the computer is going to be rather expensive, but I'm going to school for game design, so I need something that will be top of the line to handle the programs and rather large files.

The gov't very clearly states that you can request additional funds (with no limit or income restrictions) for any costs associated with attending school.

I'm confused? Can I ask for the additional amount I need for the computer or am I not allowed? Anyone with similar experience?

no but some computer companies offer college students discounts

As I understand it, for financial aide to cover the cost, the computer would have to required BY THE SCHOOL as part of the items needed to attend. Even then, there is usually a cap so the quote of $1500 may be correct. I would contact Dell and Apple...both have programs that offer discounts to students purchasing computers for school. You can also check with the school you are planning to attend...some schools have made arrangements with computer companies to sell the needed PC directly to students at a reduced cost. If not, many companies (Dell and Apple included) will allow you to apply for credit and pay the PC off over time. You would most likely need to have income to get the credit, or have a co-signor, but this could be a good move to help you start building credit of your own.

Did you mention to the FA counselor that you were looking for extra funds to buy a computer? Many schools will allow an increase in your eligibility for this purpose.

The school is required by the federal government to assign you a Cost of Attendance. This COA is made up of tuition/fees, living expenses, books/supplies, and other misc. expenses. The COA is usually a general amount for all students that meet certain criteria (for example, resident vs. non-resident, living on- vs. living off-campus, etc.). You cannot receive aid in excess of your COA. However, schools can adjust your COA to account for other expenses (like needing to purchase a computer). Note that this decision is made by the campus based on their policies and procedures. While one campus might allow for the increase, another might not. So double check and see if this is possible.

Can I get more money in Financial Aid than my school allows?

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