Request a Reconsideration

All requests for reconsideration of a need-based financial aid decision are carefully reviewed and every effort is made to assist qualified students who fully document extenuating circumstances. Award decisions based solely on merit are not subject to reconsideration.

An award decision for an entering student is based on calculated financial eligibility, academic credentials presented upon admission, and availability of funds for the program of study. Returning students are awarded aid comparable to what they were offered as entering students, provided renewal criteria are met.

To request reconsideration of a need-based financial aid decision:

  • Submit a letter of appeal requesting reconsideration of your current aid decision to the assistant director responsible for your application. Provide specific information about any change in your family’s financial situation or extenuating circumstances. Also, include an estimate of the amount of aid your calculations suggest you will need. Appropriate documentation must be included.
  • If you have not yet sent the documents listed below to Boston University (BU cannot access documents you may have sent to CSS/IDOC at the request of another university), please submit:
    • A complete, signed (even if e-filed) copy of your U.S. federal income tax return, as submitted to the IRS, with all pages and schedules. If the IRS does not require that you file a tax return, complete the Student Income Verification form.
    • A complete, signed (even if e-filed) copy of your parents’ U.S. federal income tax return, as submitted to the IRS, with all pages and schedules. If the IRS does not require that you file a tax return, complete the Parent Income Verification form.
    • Copies of all of your parents’ W-2 forms
Your assistant director’s name, based on the first two letters of your last name is listed below:

A – CL Ken Kowalczyk LB – OK Liberty Collom
CM – GO James Christensen OL – SH Christine Monaco
GP – LA Lauren Sullivan SI – Z Patricia Fidler

Priority Deadlines

To ensure consideration for the academic year starting in September, entering freshmen must submit appeals by April 15, entering transfer students by June 15, and returning students by August 1.

Families who experience changes in financial circumstances after the appeal deadline may submit a Spring Semester Application for Undergraduate Financial Aid, which is due by the first Monday in November.