Will I qualify for financial aid now that i have a child?

Question

I got married last year and im in school. I didnt qualify for finanical aid last year and I dont know why. Anyways I ended up paying for my tution and books out of pocket which was really expensive for me. My daughter is due in June of 2008. I want to apply for finanical aid again so i dont have to pay out of pocket but i dont know if i qualify. Does a person qualify for financial aid if they have a dependent?

Answer 1

They take your income to decide how much your EFC is.  EFC is the estimated family contribution.  The number of people in your home is a factor, but if you want to go to school for the Fall 08 or Spring 09 semester it will not matter.  That is to say, that the information you use on the FAFSA is from 2007.  Also, if you are under 24, you might have to ask to be qualified as an independent student.  Regardless of the fact you are married, in most cases if you are under 24 you will need your parents tax info.  Go in person to the school you are interested in attending and speak w/them directly and soon.  Preferably this week.  I am finishing at community college this summer, and have decided to go on to university level for fall.  I am scrambling to get transcripts and applications done before the end of next week.  Most places have preferred or priority application dates.  The financial aid offices are always wanting the information early, my school requested the fin. aid apps in by April 15.  If you don't like the person you are dealing w/at the financial aid office, keep your cool.  There is nothing worse than being at their mercy.  They can make or break you if you need the funds.  I work in financial aid at the community college I attend, so I have the experience first hand.

Answer 2

Someone doesn't necessarily qualify for fin aid just because they have a kid.  The "grant" or free money is based on you and your husbands income.

You probably didn't qualify for grant aid because you made too much money last year.  That being said, anyone can qualify for student loans (with IS considered financial aid by the way) no matter family income.  Here is a good book about fin aid, they types and the amounts you can get.

Good luck.

EDIT:  You need to apply NOW for fin aid.  Many schools priority deadlines have expired and waiting isn't going to make a difference.  Just make sure when it asks on the fafsa application, "How many in your household?" you include your unborn child in this number.

Answer 3

If it's government financial aid and your husband is working you wont qualify except for food and medical you may be eligible for pregnancy medicaid right now.

Answer 4

Sometimes.  It all depends on how much you make, and sometimes what you are studying. The only way to find out is to apply.  Congrats on the child and the new  marriage.

Answer 5

well it definitely won't be a hinderance because you have a child, it actually shows that you are in more need of some financial help. go ahead and apply.

Answer 6

Yes, having kids raises your need for financial.