How to ask for more funding, politely?

[modernity]

I'm thinking I really need to ask for some more funding. I have a great package so far so I feel badly about asking for more money, but it would really help if I could get it and pretty much seal the deal for me on this particular school. Normally I'm very good at correspondence but I'm searching for the perfect words on this one, and coming up a little short... advice anyone?

[Jae B.]

I'm struggling with the same thing! Well, the funding package I'm concerned with isn't "great," but it's at least above average for that school, from my research. It still isn't enough to bring the school within my means. I'm trying to figure out how to tell the school that, with my career expectations, taking out the loans they require would not be smart on my part -- but without making them think that I'm not worth it because of that.

It is tricky to sound grateful and ask for more at the same time. I'm trying to convey that their offer is an honor, but the cost is still more than I can afford.

It sounds like you're pretty sold on this particular school anyway, though, so maybe you should convey the difficulties that would be eased by more funding, and ask if they can work with you on that, so you can be even more productive as their scholar.