Penn SP2 MSW financial aid

[rhey]

Hey everyone, 

 

I've just been accepted to UPenn for their full time Clinical MSW program. Does anyone know how generous they are with financial aid? I love the school and I'd LOVE to live in Philly, but I'm not sure if it's worth the hefty price tag. Also I'm waiting to receive my financial aid information, and I'm just anxious to see what that will be like. 

 

Does anyone know how generous Penn is compared to other MSW programs?

[Lifesaver]

I've been accepted to Penn's MSW program for the fall, too. I am also really undecided about the price tag. Been having massive anxiety about it since I found out, lol.

 

In my letter of acceptance it stated that I was not offered any grant money directly from the school. Did yours not say anything like that? You may be one of the lucky few to get money!

[Figaro]

I received the news this week that I, too, have been accepted to Penn's program for this fall. I was also accepted to Pitt's MSW program and am awaiting the news from one other very good out-of-state school, but frankly, I am no longer inclined to consider it anymore because I prefer either Pitt or Penn.  It helps that I live in PA.  The MSW programs at both of these universities are reputed to be absolutely top notch, so I am incredibly conflicted about which one to attend.  I haven't received the financial aid awards from either one yet.  If the financial aid can make Penn possible, then it will be a really tough decision. I really need to find out whether or not an MSW degree from an Ivy will make a difference to potential employers in the field of social work, or, if the degree is earned at an excellent non-Ivy, that's all that matters in this field.  Would Penn's degree be worth more debt?  Would it make me more competitive for a good job in the field?  Both of these programs have such wonderful things about them. I love the international flavor of Penn's student body and their focus on activism and leadership, but Pitt also has a really great gerontology program and Pittsburgh is just a much nicer city than Philly. I am worried about fitting in at Penn because I don't come from a rich family. We're solidly middle class.  Altogether, it is a great predicament to have.  My family and I are very, very happy that I get to make such a choice.  Now, I am just trying to figure out what to do.

[Baffledgenius]

I received my financial aid award letter, $9500 a year. It's such a tiny amount and I asked them to increase it but they do not want to. I hope you guys have better luck.

[Lifesaver]

I would LOVE a $9,500 award. Want to trade?

[rhey]

I got a 7500 award, it barely makes a dent in their tuition. If you break it down by credit hour, Penn is twice as expensive as schools in MA (like BU, BC, and Simmons). I don't think it's worth it, honestly. 

 

When it comes to social work, the name of the school and it reputation doesn't matter (as long as it's accredited). Also potential earnings with an MSW aren't super high, so I wouldn't waste your time and money going into a ton of debt from an Ivy. That's just my opinion though.