Am I getting all that I can from fin aid at my university as a single parent?

Question

It seems each semester I have to borrow money to cover college. I am a single parent of three. Why do other single parents recived money and never have to touch loans but I have to borrow money every semester?

Answer 1

Every students individual circumstances are going to be different.  Without knowing your University and how they award financial aid it is very difficult to know if you are receiving all that you can.  Also, the cost of tuition at most colleges increases year to year and the federal aid that is available does not increase with it, thus leaving a greater gap between federal aid and unpaid tuition.  

Are you receiving Pell or SEOG grants?  Are you taking out the full amount of Stafford awarded and it is not enough?  The other students you are referencing may be receiving additional private funding through the university, or from outside sources such as family, or other private scholarships.

You should discuss your concerns with your financial aid office and find out if there are some scholarships or grants that you can apply for.