Financial Need Worksheet

  1. Create a budget for the full school year.
    Dorm or apartment? Meal plan or home cooking? New books or used books? Think about ways to keep your costs down. Then use the table below to realistically estimate what you'll need for the full school year.

      Example* Your Estimate
    Tuition/fees $10,000
    Room/rent $2,400
    Board/meals $2,300
    Books/supplies $800
    Utilities/phone $675
    Transportation $1,000
    Personal $1,080
    Miscellaneous $450
    Total Expenses $18,705 A
    *Based on a 9-month school year.


  2. Know your resources
    Discuss what your family can contribute and then aggressively go after "free money" options. Add up your total resources from savings, grants/scholarships and work.

      Per Year Example Your Estimate
    Savings for education $3,500
    Loans $1,500
    Income $2,700
    Grants/scholarships $5,000
    Work study $1,500
    Total Resources $14,200 B


  3. How much more will you need?
    Subtract total resources (BOX B, above) from total expenses (BOX A, above). Enter the total in BOX C, below. If your resources can cover your expenses, you'll all set. If not, you'll need a way to make up the difference from student loans and other sources. Consult your financial aid director for other payment options.

    Example $18,705 - $14,200 = $4,505
    Your Estimate A - B = C
      Total Expenses - Total Resources = Total Need