Advice on how to pay for Stanford tuition? Need help!

Hi everyone,

I’m a community college student who just got accepted to transfer to Stanford, and I’m thrilled about it! However, the expected family contribution is nearly full tuition (~$70k), which is beyond what we can afford. While I’ve started applying for various scholarships, I’m looking for additional recommendations or advice. I’m majoring in ethnic studies, come from an underrepresented minority ethnic group, and am committed to community service and social justice.

For context, my FAFSA’s EFC is 0, and UCB offered me nearly a full-ride. I shared this information with Stanford’s Financial Aid office, but they mentioned they don’t match public university offers and don’t account for many of the FAFSA deductions.

Any advice or suggestions on scholarships, grants, or sponsorships would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks!

If you’re dedicated to a field where you might not make a substantial income, my advice is to avoid accumulating $140-210k in student debt at all costs.

While I don’t have specific scholarship recommendations, if you can’t secure enough funding, your future self will likely appreciate choosing Berkeley instead.

I don’t have specific advice to offer, but congratulations on getting accepted to both Berkeley and Stanford! I hope everything works out perfectly for you.

Honestly, I wouldn’t choose Stanford. While it might be a dream, given your major, you might be better off at UCB.

Is there a possibility to appeal your financial aid decision at Stanford? They might offer a bit more assistance if you explain your financial situation.

I submitted my appeal yesterday, so fingers crossed.
Thanks for the suggestion.