Do you get college loans for the entire cost, or just that semester?

Question

I'm going back to school, but the first time my parents just paid with their credit card. I"m doing it on my own this time, but I don't know how to go about getting a loan. (I don't qualify for aid, because the Federal Government won't recognize my independence.)

Answer 1

Whatever you do, don't go with a "fly by night" loan company, use your bank or credit union.  Sallie Mae servicing is another reputable company.  To help save a little (a very little) try "Upromise".

The very first step, is to fill out the FAFSA form.  I know from your other question, your parents refuse, but that way you'll know if you qualify for low interest loans (your parents don't need to take the ones that they may offer them - make that clear to them).  If you don't end up qualifying, go with private loans.  You must have fairly good credit to get these loans, and it sure sounds like if your parents refuse to fill out the FAFSA, then they won't be likely to co-sign for a loan (very sad indeed).  

I really fell terrible about your situation...

Answer 2

In order to get a student loan you have to fill out the fafsa.  Yes, i read your other question about them refusing to provide the information.  Without the fafsa filled out you will not be able to get a student loan.  PERIOD.  Some will direct you to apply for private student loans, but those will require a credit check and a cosigner, and I seriously doubt your parents will cosign for you if they are refusing to give you their tax info as well.

My advice to you is this.  Let your folks know that by providing you their tax information, they are allowing you to pay for your education yourself and without their assistance.  Them providing you the information does not obligate them to pay in any way.  If they still refuse, then perhaps they are doing you a favor, because this will prevent you from taking out student loans ( which they may be the best judgment on if you are responsible enough to handle based on your past "lack" of success in college).  

You might consider just enrolling in ONE class and pay for it yourself upfront.  See how you do.. and see how paying for it yourself may influence your folks to change their mind sometime in the next few years.

Answer 3

There are so many uses for old secured personal loans, and the chances are you will be able to get one quickly and easily. It's a common idea that only homeowners can get loans from finance companies. That just isn't true, most people can apply for, and receive an unsecured personal all kinds of uses. You can get loans from a few hundred pounds, up to £25,000, unsecured. These loans can be used to buy a new car, a holiday abroad, a new kitchen, the latest cell phone available, or just about anything<!--else. It is a true that you will probably pay more interest than a homeowner who takes out a secured loan. But on the other hand, they have to take out a second mortgage to get their hands on the money.

http://best-loans.awardspace.com/student...

With an unsecured loan, you don't need anything, apart from the application form and a good broker. All kinds of people can apply for unsecured loans, tenants, young people, retired people, people with good and bad credit, you can even get a same-->day loan, and some companies let you apply online. The interest rate you pay will be made very clear to by the broker before you sign anything. As will the amount of the monthly payment, and how long you have to make those payments for. Any quality broker will go out of his way to make sure you understand these rules.

Answer 4

FAFSA benefits are awarded for each academic period by terms. The Federal Government can't help with your expenses because it mortgaged your future to occupy Iraq. Sorry, but you should still qualify for Stafford loans. Make another trip to financial aid! And, don't forget to see the scholarship people! I got a thousand dollar award from a scholarship trust, but applying was more trouble than the award was worth.

Answer 5

I'm in grad school and I haven't paid a dime out of pocket. Financial aid is paying everything including books, I'm doing it online and I'll be done this summer after a year and a half of study. It's too bad that they won't recognize your independant status, I heard Suze Orman say that you really should not deal with independant student loan services because they are predatory. Be careful! If it means sucking up to your parents to get your college education I'd do it. It will be worth it in the long run.

Answer 6

im going through a similar situation, however i am independant ans for the whole school year all the government will pay is 7500- thats only covering my first semester. now if ur parents are taking out the government loan, its even less. the only other option u would have is you urself taking out a private loan, but if you have no credit or bad credit, and no cosigner, then if ur like me ur up s***s creek. if ur parents are willing to cosign a private loan wit u it shouldnt be a problem