SAIS: financial concerns

[tkamkbd]

Unfortunately, SAIS didn't give any money, and all I got were federal loans and work study. This is not a lot considering the estimated cost is close to $60k/year.

My question is: Is it better to defer, or reapply, in hopes for a better financial aid package? (I've already talked to the finaid office and various depts and it doesn't look like they can adjust/award any more funding.)

For current students, do you find $58k to be a good estimate of overall cost of living? Of course if I do end up going, I'll look for a less expensive apartment, buy books used if possible, etc. But is there room to save a lot of money in the cost breakdown? e.g. cafeteria food, housing and all that.

For admitted students, what are your considerations? If you got little/no aid, are you thinking of taking out more loans, or deferring/waiting? I would love love love to go to SAIS, and I'm disappointed that financial constraints will probably determine what I ultimately choose to do.

[deechi]

Unfortunately, SAIS didn't give any money, and all I got were federal loans and work study. This is not a lot considering the estimated cost is close to $60k/year.

My question is: Is it better to defer, or reapply, in hopes for a better financial aid package? (I've already talked to the finaid office and various depts and it doesn't look like they can adjust/award any more funding.)

For current students, do you find $58k to be a good estimate of overall cost of living? Of course if I do end up going, I'll look for a less expensive apartment, buy books used if possible, etc. But is there room to save a lot of money in the cost breakdown? e.g. cafeteria food, housing and all that.

For admitted students, what are your considerations? If you got little/no aid, are you thinking of taking out more loans, or deferring/waiting? I would love love love to go to SAIS, and I'm disappointed that financial constraints will probably determine what I ultimately choose to do.

It probably depends on what you would do in the interim. If you aren't neccessarily doing something to make you more competitive then you're not likely to see any additional funding. However, if you're working in a relevant job, re-taking the GRE's or making enough money to put something aside for grad school it can be a good idea. That all may be worth it if you honestly believe that SAIS has the best fit for your interests.

In regards to Cost of living. SAIS is by Dupont circle. You won't find anything within walking distance that is cheaper than about 1000-1100 a month (unless you like, share a studio..which a lot of people do) and when I was living around there and in school I was spending about 200 a week, give or take, on expenses. Factor in whatever other bills you have to pay and I think you'll see it's around the 58k over the two years.