FAFSA questsions?

Question

The FAFSA said my families expected contribuiton was $26,750. My parents won't pay that kind of money for school, my mom already said no way. Not even if we split it in half and I paid $13,000 and her and my dad paid $13,000. I want to pay for school by myself but it's like I'm getting pentalized because they make over $100,000 a year. What should I do? What are some ways I can get loans?

Answer 1

Your EFC is NOT the amount you will have to pay for school.  If you read your SAR it says this very clearly on your letter.  Your cost depends greatly on the school you choose, public vs. private, full vs. part time, university vs. community college.  Some community colleges are less than 1,500 a semester.

Yes, you can get student loans in your name and without your parents cosigning for you.  The max amount you can get in a federal Stafford loan is 3,500 per year.  So if you choose a school that is less than this per year, plus  maybe get a part time job, then you can fund your freshman year entirely on your own.

Answer 2

When I was in school, I was not claimed by my parents on their tax return.  Thus, I did not have to use their income as a basis for my payments.  I got some student loans and grants and also worked 2 jobs part time and paid my entire way for college.  (I used my grandmother's address and filed my own tax return - with my McDonald's income)

You also might want to look at less expensive colleges too!

Answer 3

Its really hard to get studen loans right now.  Perhaps they would pay for the first year's tuition, you could move into off-campus housing, get a job - that way next year you would not be considered a dependent and the FAFSA would only count your income.

Answer 4

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Answer 5

First off, look at the cost vs what you get in financial aid.

Second, look at other schools. This is only from a cost stand point

third, there are "supplemental loans". Ask your Financial Aid person about them.

Fourth, you can try and take out a loan at the bank. If you don't have some kind of job, it will be difficult

Fifth, Look at work-study.

I find it rather "strange", that people that make over 100000 bucks a year *i am assuming between them, not a piece* would balk at this. they would have a much better chance of getting a loan than you.

Answer 6

If you want to be a teacher, there is a HUGE teacher shortage nationwide.  Check with your state dept of edu.  Many states have grants for students that want to be teachers.  The grants pay your tuition if you agree to teach for X number of years.  Unsubsidized federal loans are usually available regardless of house hold income.