<p>Financial aid is a royal pain in the tookus. But start mastering the details. Read as much as you can and understand the trade offs. Read through the details on the Pell Grant, the Cal Grant, the SMart grant, etc so you understand when the deadlines are, what you have to do to apply, etc.</p>
<p>Do the same for Stafford Loans (subsidized and unsubsidized). </p>
<p>Filling out the FAFSA was a great first step. Take a moment and email the financial aid office of each school and ask if you can work with one of their officers directly because you are an independent. They should be very nice and helpful. </p>
<p>Verify everything you are told. (For instance, if the officer says "The ABC program is a grant and doesn’t have to be repayed, check that out on the school website and make sure – or get it in writing). </p>
<p>This is challenging stuff. I am 52 years old with a college degree and I struggle with it. That’s ok. Some of the most challenging races are the most wonderful to win. </p>
<p>I like “How to pay for college without going broke” by Chany. You can get it from the library or browse it at a bookstore (you don’t have to own it). It explains a lot. </p>
<p>Please know we are rooting for you. You have some extra challenges – hopefully they will make you extra strong. Meanwhile, master the details.</p>