Example Emails Used to Negotiate A Merit Scholarship

While many applicants to medical school do not attempt to negotiate a scholarship, it is a viable option for strong applicants who have already been accepted into two programs. For other tips on how to lower the cost of medical school, check out our 8 tips on how to lower the cost of medical school article. Below are two example emails used to negotiate a scholarship. Note that School #2 in this example is a state school.

Dear [SCHOOL #1]

Thank you for the amazing news! I am thrilled to receive this acceptance. [SCHOOL #1] is a great fit for my goals as I train to be a physician. I was particularly impressed by the collaborative atmosphere of the student body and the enthusiasm of the faculty I met during my interview day. Of course, having a lot of friends and family in the [SCHOOL #1 LOCATION] area is an additional advantage to attending [SCHOOL #1]. However, I am concerned about cost. My state school would be significantly less expensive. Is there any way that [SCHOOL #1] could help narrow that gap?

Dear [SCHOOL #2]

I was recently admitted to [SCHOOL #1] and awarded a [SCHOLARSHIP AMOUNT] scholarship.  Overall, I believe [SCHOOL #2] is a better fit for my goals as I train to be a physician.  In particular, [SCHOOL #2] has a culture of mentorship and collaboration that is rare and appealing as a matriculating medical student.  I was particularly impressed by the caliber of the students and the enthusiasm of the faculty I met during my interview day.  Additionally, I have a lot of friends and family in the [SCHOOL #2] area.  However, I am concerned about cost.  Is [SCHOOL #2] still distributing scholarship awards?  If so, would it be possible to be considered for one?

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