Dependent to independent status federal loans??

Question

I'm almost done with my degree in American Studies (it’s a liberal art) I should be done in the fall but I have recently decided that I should either stay in school or return right away. I want to get my teaching certification for Social Sciences (it will take about two years) I just received independent status since I was born before Jan 1st of 1985 (barely) but I am worried about financial aid ..... I've gotten the maximum amount for a dependant undergraduate but I am no longer a dependant. From what I understand, you can't get federal aid for a second bachelors but what if I don't complete the first until I complete the second. Am I eligible for more federal aid now that I have independent status? I feel like teaching certification would benefit me greatly

also my school is nationally and even internationally recognized for its college of education.. and the students are recruited a great deal for teaching jobs in not only this state but other states and countries as well.

Answer 1

You can receive federal loans for a second degree.  (Have the loan payment booklet, if anyone doubts you!)

The school system is not picky it is the new No Child Left Behind requirements for Highly Qualified Teachers.  Human resources used to be able to hire anyone with a bachelor's degree and allow them five years to work towards a license...not the case.  I would look into an alternative licensure program.  These programs vary state by state, but do not require a full term of student teaching.  BIG savings.  if there is room in your schedule, I'd look into taking the courses required for admission to the upper division education courses.  It's usually just two simple courses and possibly a test.  If you can get these under your belt this summer or next semester, you can begin next spring semester and potentially teach the following year.  (That is taking a full load in the spring and some in the summer under an alternative education program.)