So, I've received three Army ROTC offers. Two 3-year offers to out-of-state public schools (One of which was my first choice) and one to an in-state public school. The two out-of-state ones are 3-year scholarships and the in-state public school gave me four years. Is there any way to appeal for a four-year scholarship to my first choice? I don't know how I'll pay for the first year. After grants and school-based scholarships, I have to fork out about $22,000. My parents, together, make $43,000. I was thinking about writing a letter to Cadet Command explaining my financial situation and how I can't afford even one year at the institution I wish to go to. Any tips, ServiceAcademyForum family?
Pima makes very good points as usual.
You are asking if there is a way to appeal for a transfer. Does that mean that you have already requested a transfer and it has been denied.
Clarkson and Marist have posted extensivly about transfers. If it means transferring a 4 year from a lower cost in state school to a more expensive out of state school I believe their answer was, " Nearly Impossible"
I agree with PIMA, have you looked at Stafford Loans or any other student loan programs to cover the first year.
If the money is the overriding factor then the in state school sounds like the best bet.
One thing you need to consider as well, it falls under the "What if's". What if you decide ROTC is not for you, will you be able to still pay for school. What if you do not pass PT in your first semester and are told you have to leave the program, what if you don't make the grades. Then the BIG What If, what if you get hurt and are disqualified by Dodmerb, will you still be able to stay in the school you are attending. You need to think about all these factors when selecting a school. There is an attrition rate among ROTC and there are students that face this decision every year.
I don't mean to sound negative but CC will not care about your financial situation, there are many students in the same boat.
Another question, you say that you will need to spend $22,000 on top of grants and merit the first year, does that include Room and Board. You will still have the Room and Board cost each year even with the scholarship unless your merit will cover that cost. Do you have merit $ for the in state school that will help with Room and Board.
I can only say to you what I told my son, choose your school as if you are not receiving the scholarship and plan accordingly, this way you can continue if something unforseen happens.
Good luck, I wish you the best.