Boarding School Financial Aid

<p>I know I should probably post this is the Prep School Admissions Board, but some parents suggested that I post it in the Parents Forum too since you guys have more experience…</p>

<p>I need a LOT of grants to be able to attend (think $2,000~ parent contribution. By the way, the EFC indicated $0 parent contribution). What makes my situation more complicated is that I am an international applicant. I applied to 6 schools, and was waitlisted at all of them (either general or FA waitlist). Some of these schools already told me that the reason why I was waitlisted is because of the lack of funds. The policy is not to admit unless they can offer FA too. </p>

<p>We try to avoid loans as much as possible because of the different economies, etc. However, a $1,000 (or less) loan per year might be manageable. I have 3 younger siblings, all in private school (public school is not an option) and there’s still college to think about. What are the common difficulties international students encounter in regards to loans? Pros and cons? I guess this situation is parallel to college loans.</p>

<p>Are there any other options I can consider to be able to fund boarding school? The best my relatives can provide is plane tickets and a place to stay during vacations. Does anyone have any advice on how to get off the waitlist (or at least be on top of the waitlist in case they have slots open) and get enough aid?</p>

<p>If I get a summer job, how much can I expect to earn? (lol sorry, but I seriously don't have experience in this)</p>

<p>Thanks!</p>

<p>cate -- do you have relatives in the US? perhaps an option might be to attend a good public school in the US while staying with relatives.</p>

<p>As far as a summer job -- depending on what kind of visa you have, you might not be allowed to work. do some checking on the regulations. if you can work, you need to be 16 for most jobs (there are limited jobs available for 14 year olds) and I would guess that an inexperienced 16 year old would probably make minimum wage.</p>

<p>Distant, yes I do. The problem with public school is that I can only use the student's visa for 1 year if I choose to attend public.</p>

<p>How much is minumum wage?</p>

<p>It is not easy to get visa for attending public school.</p>

<p>You also have to watch for work restrictions with visas.</p>