How to Negotiate Your Scholarship: 4 Real Emails That Worked

Updated 2026/10/16

For many students, the application process ends the moment the offer arrives. But one well-written email often has a good chance of saving you hundreds of thousands, even millions, of NT dollars in tuition. Negotiating your scholarship after you are admitted may be the best hourly rate you will ever earn as a student: two or three hours of writing can save you more than NT$300,000.

Scholarship negotiation works much like negotiating salary after a job offer. You use your other offers, your own value, and your connection to the school to persuade them to put up more money to get you. And don’t be afraid that asking will make them withdraw your offer!

This post covers how to negotiate a study-abroad scholarship and shares four real sample emails. I started with one example. Then more and more readers wrote back to say their negotiations had worked too, and several sent me their emails. So far these emails have saved readers more than NT$1 million in tuition!

How to prepare for a scholarship negotiation

Know the two types of scholarships

Before you negotiate, you need to understand the two types of scholarships:

• Merit-based scholarships: Awarded for academic achievement, work experience, leadership, test scores, or other outstanding performance.
• Need-based scholarships: Awarded based on financial need and past salary level, mainly to help students who could not otherwise afford high tuition.

Once you know these two categories, you can approach the negotiation email from both angles, whichever type of scholarship you applied for, and persuade the school with both your merit and your need.

Sample scholarship negotiation emails

Real example 1 (US MBA)

This email got the writer an extra US$10k in tuition reduction on top of an original US$45k scholarship! Huge thanks to the kind person who shared it, and I hope it helps all of you win more scholarship money. (I look forward to hearing your good news.)

Below, [Dream School MBA] is the school being negotiated with (the dream school), and [Another MBA] is the competing school.

Subject line: Request for Scholarship Reassessment_[Name]_Admitted Student (Class of 20XX)

Email body:

Dear Scholarship Committee,

I want to express my sincere gratitude for granting me a $45,000 (35%) merit scholarship. This scholarship has been a significant contribution and played a crucial role in my decision-making process. However, after carefully evaluating my financial situation and considering the competing offer from [Another MBA] (XX% Fellowship, full insurance coverage, lower costs of living, and a two-year program bearing lower risk in the tech recruiting recession), I find myself in a difficult position.

The entrepreneurial spirit has always guided my MBA application journey, and both [Dream School MBA] and [Another MBA] stand out as beacons of innovation. While [Another MBA] boasts a robust entrepreneurship center and Entrepreneurial Innovation Academy, [Dream School MBA]’s Studio curriculum and multidisciplinary cohorts perfectly align with my vision of empowering women in tech, revolutionizing floral start-up through technology, and eradicating educational barriers for underprivileged children.

Community engagement is more than a passion; it’s my way of life. In the workforce, I witnessed gender imbalances and took action by organizing Information Security workshops. I am fully committed to bringing my values and experiences to initiatives supporting women in technology, both within the [Dream School MBA] community and the broader tech industry. The Women’s Management Council, Break Through Tech, and Women in Business are where I intend to make a significant impact.

Moreover, the Startup Studio at [Dream School MBA] presents an unparalleled opportunity to fuel my entrepreneurial ambitions. As an aspiring floral designer at XXX, Taiwan’s largest floral startup, I am eager to leverage AI and UI/UX tools to manage inventory and foster creativity. My experiences managing events for renowned luxury brands have highlighted the potential of AI in revolutionizing small businesses across industries. The vibrant art scene of New York City and [Dream School MBA]’s proximity to the Flower District provides an ideal environment for exploration and innovation.

Lastly, I firmly believe in the potential of youth as the cornerstone of our future. The vision of K-12 schools deeply resonates with my lifelong mission to dismantle educational barriers through technological innovation. My involvement with the founder of XXX, an online learning tech start-up, has provided me with invaluable resources to pursue my passion for education. Moreover, I actively engage in community-building endeavors…, advocating for fundraising efforts to secure educational rights for rural children… My conviction in the transformative power of technology to improve our world remains unwavering.

Since applying to your MBA program, I have meticulously planned my career path in product development, passing rigorous internal Apple examinations and actively networking with [Dream School MBA]’s incoming candidates and alumni at target companies like Apple and Google. Observing challenges in Taiwan, such as study-abroad loan barriers, I am heartened by the experience of incoming student XXX in navigating the loan market for underserved students. Our planned meeting in Taiwan has reinforced my belief in the warmth and resilience of the [Dream School MBA] community, and I am excited to learn and grow alongside the class of 2025.

Despite coming from an underprivileged family, I am determined to self-fund my MBA. However, existing family responsibilities and limited loan options for Taiwanese students pose significant challenges. Therefore, I respectfully request the Scholarship Committee’s reconsideration of my scholarship offer in light of the competitive offer from [Another MBA]. My hope is to secure additional financial aid or an assistantship, increasing the scholarship amount to at least 80% of the total tuition, if not more. This extra support would enable me to fully commit myself to the program and make meaningful contributions to the [Dream School MBA] community.

Although I have the opportunity to negotiate for a higher scholarship offer from [Another MBA], I have consciously decided not to pursue it. The sentiment echoed in your admissions letter, “We have chosen you – now, the choice is yours,” resonated deeply within me, affirming my unwavering commitment to your esteemed MBA program. Amidst the sea of thousands of applicants, I firmly believe in my ability to bring forth unique perspectives and values shaped by my life journey. As the proud female [Dream School MBA] candidate from Taiwan, I am driven to amplify program visibility and forge robust connections within Taiwan’s tech hub through initiatives like admissions coffee chats.

Your time, consideration, and assistance in this matter are deeply appreciated. I am prepared to provide any additional documentation or engage in further discussions as needed. I eagerly await your favorable response and the opportunity to contribute to the transformative journey of [Dream School MBA]’s MBA program.

Best regards,

XXX

Admitted [Dream School MBA] Candidate, Class of 2025

Real example 2 (UK MBA)

This one has an unusual backstory. A reader saw this post, used example 1 as a reference, and got an extra 10% tuition reduction on top of her original 20% scholarship. One email saved her more than £5,000 (roughly NT$200,000+).

Besides following the guidelines in this post, she said she made sure to hit a few key points:

• Paragraph 1: get straight to the point
• Paragraph 2: why this school
• Paragraph 3: show your strengths
• Paragraph 4: stress your financial need

She did not name a scholarship percentage in her email, because she wanted to leave the school some flexibility.

Below, [A School] is the school being negotiated with (the dream school), and [B School] is the competing school.

Subject line: [A School] – MBA Full Time – Scholarship Reconsideration

Email body:

Dear XXX,

I hope this message finds you well.

Thank you for your great support. I am writing to express my sincere gratitude to [A School]’s Selection Committee for the scholarship offer of £10,000 (20%) for the MBA program. I am truly honoured by the opportunity to potentially join such a prestigious institution. This scholarship has been a significant factor in my decision-making process. However, after carefully evaluating my financial situation and considering [B School]’s competing offer of a 50% scholarship (£25,000), I find myself in a difficult position.

[B School]’s offer significantly alleviates the financial burden, but my preference remains with [A School] for several reasons: being recognized for embodying the Change Maker ethos is an honour, and I am committed to contributing to the school community; [A School]’s extensive global alumni network offers invaluable support for mentorship, networking, and career advancement; and [A School]’s curriculum in social and environmental sustainability aligns perfectly with my career goals, enabling me to drive positive change in supply chain management and sustainable business practices.

With over XXX of professional experience in the XXX sectors, I bring valuable insights and skills to the MBA program. My vision includes creating an inclusive learning environment that celebrates diverse perspectives. My experience in navigating cultural nuances and leading cross-functional teams will facilitate meaningful discussions and collaborations within the MBA class. My proficiency in managing multi-project collaborations across various internal divisions and international business partners has honed my ability to effectively communicate, negotiate, and lead diverse teams. These skills will enrich classroom discussions and group projects, fostering innovative ideas. My commitment to driving positive change and my proven leadership track record will leave a lasting impact on the MBA program, inspiring fellow participants towards collective growth and success.

Despite the recent weakening of the [home currency] significantly impacting my financial situation, I am determined to self-fund my MBA. However, the fluctuation in currency exchange rates has increased the overall cost of my education abroad, making it more challenging to cover expenses. This factor makes the need for increased financial support even more crucial.

Given the substantial difference in scholarship amounts, I respectfully request if [A School] could reconsider and potentially increase the scholarship offer. I am open to discussing any additional financial aid or assistantship that could help bridge the gap. This extra support would enable me to fully commit to the program and make meaningful contributions to the [A School] MBA community.

Your time, consideration, and assistance in this matter are deeply appreciated. I am prepared to provide any additional documentation or engage in further discussions as needed. I eagerly await your favourable response and the opportunity to contribute to [A School]’s MBA program.

Warm regards,

[Name]

Admitted [A School] Full-time MBA Candidate, Class of XXXX

Real example 3 (US master’s in Electrical Engineering)

This one is even more impressive. Neither school (A & B University) had offered a scholarship, yet this email took the writer from no scholarship to US $10,000/y. That saves more than NT$300,000 in tuition every year!

Dear XXX,

I am writing to discuss the possibility of receiving a scholarship from [A University] as I have recently been admitted to the Electrical Engineering program. While I have also received an offer from [B University], I am particularly drawn to [A University] for its renowned faculty, exceptional resources, and strong industry connections.

I am impressed by [A University] faculty members’ dedication to the design of integrated circuits, which aligns perfectly with my academic interests and career goals. Additionally, [A University]’s network with top companies in the industry presents enticing opportunities for practical experience and networking.

Considering the financial aspects of pursuing higher education, I would greatly appreciate any information or guidance regarding scholarship opportunities at [A University], especially those tailored to students in the Electrical Engineering program.

I am committed to making a positive contribution to the [A University] community and am eager to capitalize on the opportunities available to me. With your support, I am confident that I can achieve my academic and professional aspirations.

Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to your response and am available for further discussions at your convenience.

Warm regards,

[Name]

Real example 4 (European MiM)

This one is also well worth a look. After reading this post, a reader worked up the courage to ask her school about a scholarship and negotiate for one, and ended up with a Fellowship worth more than NT$200,000. Many thanks to her for offering to share it so more people can use it. I hope you all win more scholarship money, and please share your own emails and tips with me!

Dear XXX,

I hope this message finds you well.

I am writing to discuss the possibility of receiving a scholarship from [A School], as I have been admitted to the MiM program. I am impressed by [A School]’s emphasis on diversity, which aligns perfectly with my motivations, academic interests, and career goals.

With over four sorts of professional experience across various scales of organizations and industries, and a degree in XXX, I believe I will bring valuable insights and skills to the MiM program. My vision includes creating an inclusive learning environment that celebrates diverse perspectives. My proficiency in managing multiple project collaborations across various functions has honed my ability to effectively communicate, collaborate, and contribute my solid data analytics and marketing skills within the MiM class. These skills will enrich classroom discussions and group projects, fostering innovative ideas.

Given the substantial amount of the scholarship, I respectfully request that [A School] reconsider and potentially grant the scholarship offer. I am open to discussing any additional financial aid or assistantships. This extra support would enable me to fully commit to the program and make meaningful contributions to the [A School] MiM community. With your support, I am confident that I can achieve my academic and professional aspirations.

Your time, consideration, and assistance in this matter are deeply appreciated. I am prepared to provide any additional documentation or engage in further discussions as needed. I eagerly await your favorable response and the opportunity to contribute to [A School]’s MiM program.

Thank you very much.

Warm regards,
XXX

How to write an effective scholarship negotiation email

Opening paragraph

• Keep it short and clear: Get to the point, introduce yourself, and say why you are writing.
• Be clear about what you want: Say that you are hoping for more financial support. If you have an offer from another school, or even a scholarship from another school, you can negotiate by comparison. For example, explain the differences between the two schools and the amount you have been offered so far, and say that although the other school costs less, you really want to attend this one, so you hope they can offer you more scholarship money.

Body paragraphs

The body paragraphs are where you use the two angles mentioned above (merit + need)!

• Show your strengths (merit): Describe your academic achievements, work experience, and background, and how that experience will contribute to the school and the classroom, for example by improving class discussions.
• Stress your need (need): Explain your financial situation and why you need more support. For example, it might reduce your student loan burden so you can commit fully to studying and to the experience of studying abroad.

Closing paragraph

• Say thank you: Thank them for their time and consideration, and invite them to contact you with any questions or requests for documents.
• Ask for a reply: Say that you hope to hear back, and you can even offer times when you are free for an online meeting.

Tips to raise your chances of success

Show your value

Showing your own value matters a lot in a negotiation. That goes beyond academic or career achievements to include your personal qualities, values, sense of social responsibility, and future potential. Schools want to invest their scholarships and resources in students with potential and future value. So in your negotiation email, sum up some of the strengths you wrote about in your essays and remind the admissions officer that you are worth investing in.

Your connection to the school

Just as your application essays need a clear answer to “Why School?” and a clear plan for how this school will help you reach your goals, your email can say why it has to be this school: what it offers you that other schools cannot, such as its location, the industries around it, career resources, or distinctive courses. Remind the admissions officer that even though you have other offers, and another school may be offering a bigger scholarship, you still want to come to theirs. All that is missing is a final push, and you hope they will offer more scholarship money to get you there.

FAQ

What should I keep in mind when negotiating a scholarship?

Keep these points in mind when you negotiate:

1. Stay polite: Be polite and respectful whatever the outcome. Mind your email etiquette, and before you send, you can use AI to check for any inappropriate wording.
2. Manage your expectations: Writing to negotiate a scholarship has an upside and no downside, but set your expectations first. It will not always get you more money.
3. Prepare thoroughly: Gather all the relevant materials, find your highlights, and state them precisely in a short email.
4. Be proactive: Taking part in school events such as Information Sessions helps the admissions officers remember you. Being proactive throughout the process will definitely help.
5. Be confident: Present your strengths and your needs with confidence. There is no need to be overly modest about your Impact or experience.

How can I improve my chances of getting a scholarship?

You can improve your chances in these areas:

1. Strong academic and test scores: Some schools award merit-based scholarships based on GPA, GMAT/GRE scores, and the interview or essays, so a high GMAT or GRE score helps with both admission and scholarships. For more, see GMAT vs. GRE and “GMAT/GRE Optional: Should I Still Take the Test? 10 Steps to Help You Decide“.
2. Get involved and stand out: Take part in academic research, community service, and extracurricular activities to show your all-round abilities.
3. Prepare your application materials carefully: Write a strong personal statement and get strong recommendation letters that bring out your strengths, then recap the key points in your negotiation email as a reminder.