My parents, who combined make about $120,000 annually, suddenly decided to stop paying for my college education. This means I don't qualify for any need-based financial aid, so I didn't bother filling out a FAFSA this year. I go to UCLA (and currently commute there), so I pay about $2500 for tuition, $200 for books, $200 for parking, and maybe $500 for gas a quarter, not including miscellaneous expenses. I really wanted a double major in biology and geology, but I can see that dream crushed, as I don't have enough money to pay for the extra units.
Is there some way that I can loan out enough money to keep me going for the next three years? Is it a good idea to become a part-time student and work like crazy to pay off my loans? I'm so lost and confused.
This problem keeps me awake at night. Thanks for any and all replies.
2006-09-14 05:54:54 · 7 answers · asked by Dumblydore 3 in Education & Reference ➔ Financial Aid
Yes, there is a way to finance a college education.
First, a part time job can help pay for gas, parking expenses, and books. An idea is to find one either on your college campus, near the college campus, or close to your home to save on gas expenses. Do not be afraid to look at the college website for campus' employment section or at the student career center. Both are wonderful resources for looking for jobs.
Second, it is not too late to apply for financial aid from the federal government. However, it is too late for this quarter. However, there is a chance you could have it in place possibly before the next quarter, but there is no guarantee that will happen.
Finally, start applying for scholarships and grants on the web. There are websites devoted to listing college scholarships. However, this takes time to find out if you will receive one. Just remember, to pay attention to what is on the organization's website before applying. It can give you valuable insites about the organization which can enable you to have a better chance of getting a scholarship.
Good luck!
2006-09-14 09:12:15 · answer #1 · answered by dawncs 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Gawd, I went thru this same thing in college and almost had a nervous breakdown. You're lucky though, sounds like you can still live at home? I had to rent an apartment on top of all this. I got thru- and looking back, I'm so proud that I did this all on my own. No one can take this away from me.
Still apply for financial aid. With your parents' income taken into account, you're still eligible for loans that acrue interest while you're in school. These aren't as good as loans that don't acrue interest, but oh well. Get a part time job to help pay for the gas/car expenses. If you manage your time well, you'll be able to work 15-20 hours a week and still carry a full load of classes. You won't have a social life, but you'll have to decide what your priorities are.
In my case, 15 years ago, I think the cutoff was 23 for having your parents income count against you. If you're still in school at 23, you'll be eligible for more student aid.
You'll get through. Just manage your time/money well and you can do it.
2006-09-14 13:14:10 · answer #2 · answered by LAS 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If all else fails, you can apply for a student loan. To do that, you need to complete the FAFSA.
http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/
You can find a book on scholarships at your local library, and www.fastweb.com
Do not join the military just for college money. Even if you join the reserves or national guard you may be activated. If you don't want to be fighting Iraq, don't join. On the other hand, if the military is something you really want to do, then go ahead and join.
And a double major is still possible, it just has to be planned carefully.
2006-09-14 18:10:16 · answer #3 · answered by Gypsy Girl 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I hope this will help.
I will probably have to pay at least $15000 a year when I go to college next year. And, I'm not worrying that much.
Don't worry, you will figure something out, such as getting a summer job or asking if there are employment oppurtunities on campus such as managing a computer lab.
2006-09-14 12:59:08 · answer #4 · answered by bermudask8er7 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Consider joining the U.S. Army Reserves, National Guard, or Naval Reserves. The government will pay all of that.
2006-09-14 15:18:26 · answer #5 · answered by nflhandicapper 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Join the Military. They will pay for your education. And if your parents see what you are doing, they may just cave in and pay your for it without you actually having to go.
www.1800goguard.com
www.goarmy.com
www.marines.com
www.navy.com
www.airforce.com
2006-09-14 16:18:21 · answer #6 · answered by wrf3k 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Debt is Dumb Cash is King.
visit daveramsey.com . Get a job pay cash you are only talking 4000$ a quarter. get a job it will look better on your resume . Debt Slavery is killing students and their futures.
2006-09-14 18:14:24 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋