When applying for financial aid, does marital status matter?

Question

So I am going back to school and my b/f and I are trying to plan our engagement/wedding.

Is it better for me to be single rather than married when I go back to school & apply for financial aid? Will his income count against me when they put together financial packages?

Any knowledge of this is appreciated, thanks!

Answer 1

Double edged sword here. Yes, if you are married, his income will count towards your available financial aid programs. BUT, if you are married, they realize there are other expenses involved and figure THAT in as well. I would talk to the financial aid office at the college you are attending.

Answer 2

Yes, any income he has will be included unless he also is going back to school full time and you plan to get married housing, then you will get a lot of aid but if he has any kind of income they count it as well as your own. You will no longer be dependant on your parents income so way your options. If you come from a single parent household DO NOT COUNT HIS INCOME b/c you can lose tons of free aid

Answer 3

It will affect it.. u must use ur income from last year so if u are getting married in 2007.. nothing will change for u until u file the FAFSA for 2008 . U can change things once u get married to count his income and u can then declare 2 people on the number in household.. (if u want)

Answer 4

I am sorry to inform you, but yes his income will play a big part into how much student aid you qualify for. The lower your income the better. The only advantage is you will have 2 dependents to claim so it will help some.

Answer 5

well once you are married then his income will count no matter what.. depending on how much he earns.. you might get financial aid.. good luck!