How will I afford to go to school full-time?

Question

Will the standard financial aid be enough to cover the cost of school, housing, food, etc., if I go to a community college for 2 years? Do others do it with only federally-based financial aid?

Answer 1

I went to community college on complete financial aid - they even paid for my books, a very expensive calculator for a calculus class one year, plus I got around a $200 check every year for "living expenses" It all depends on your individual situation though.

It depends on your income - they will consider both YOU and YOUR PARENTS' income on the form (regardless if you live with them or not) until you are 23 years old. (I know, not fair - especially if you are financially independent from your parents)

All schools have a financial aid advisor that is willing to answer any and all of your questions about financial aid.

BTW - don't let the cost of college be the deciding factor on whether you go or not. It will pay off in the long run if you do decide to go - that degree is worth more than you might think. Plus, many community colleges have special transfer programs that make the transition from a two year to a four year college much much easier.

Good luck!

Answer 2

I don't think financial aid covers living expenses. If you qualify though you can get on a work study program which helps. But, you know there are over a million scholarships.

scholarships.com
fastwebscholarships.com

These are good places to start. You'll be writing alot, but its worth it when you get free money.

Student loans should be a last resort, because you are going to have to pay them back. Most loans only cover tuition anyway.

I joined the military, now I'm out so I get the MGIB which is great because I am able to live on my own. I just have a parttime job.

Sadly, though I didn't even qualify for financial aide because I made so much money in the military last year. Its not that I made so much its just that when applying for financial aid, I had to claim all of the subisidies the military gives, plus base pay, plus the MGIB.

Answer 3

Well my federal pell grant paid for my actual school expenses, but I had to work a full time job to may my living expenses.
All the hard work paid off and I recieved a degree.

You should also check into scholarships that your school or community has. You may just qualify for one.
Community college tuition tends to be cheaper than state universities and that may make your federal student aid stretch further.

The last piece of advice I have is to make a realistic budget and see just how much your student aid award will cover. Each student's award can vary depending on need and other factors.

Good Luck!

Answer 4

You can try your luck at grants (key word: luck).....but grants, or finanical aid only cover (or help) with your costs of school (ie. tuition, books) not with the cost of living. Thats your responsibility. If your doing this by yourself with out any help, I'd suggest a full-time job during the day and get night-courses. The pace will be slower in getting your degree, but at least you'll be able to afford it.

Answer 5

I went to community college full-time spring semester, single parent with 1 child. Received FASA, couldn't have made it without child support. Had 14 units. Only received $2000.00 in money aid and school was paid for.

Answer 6

My financial aid is enough to pay for tuition and books and still have a couple hundred left over.

Answer 7

join the military they will paid for your college
actually they gave me a lot more money then needed
covered tutition and send me a check 1,000 every month

Answer 8

not likely that you'll complete your degree without some financing. Student loans can be helpful.

Answer 9

cut grass during the summer

Answer 10

Take out loan and you should be able to pay for it.