<p>I guess long story short I am goin' through a bit of a crisis right now as my mother is no longer willing to fund my living expenses and transportation costs so I need to come up with the money myself.</p>
<p>I have about $3500 in the bank although all of it is federel loan money, and although I can live off of it until I start working during the summer I'd like to try to get some kind of income.</p>
<p>Ideally I'd love a part time job but it's so hard to land one with specifications and my schedule.</p>
<p>I was thinking of just spending the semester applying for lots of scholarships money and wondered if I received any, would any of the money just go towards me rather than tuition.</p>
<p>Most scholarships are sent directly to your school. Many scholarships specify they are to be used only for tuition, or only for tuition/room/board. However, if your scholarships are "unrestricted" and exceed tuition/room/board, the school will usually give you a check for the excess. It is supposed to be used for your books and school expenses, but those expenses can include living expenses.</p>
<p>I see.</p>
<p>My federal loans were the same way, the money was sent to my school and the school then provided me a check for the excess.</p>
<p>So I guess when I look for scholarships I just must make sure they are unrestricted.</p>
<p>Thank You!</p>
<p>They would also have to exceed tuition/room/board. Your school will first cover those costs with the scholarships before giving whatever is left over to you, even with unrestricted scholarships.</p>
<p>My daughter has quite a bit in grants and scholarships. Once all the tuition/fees are covered the balance is paid to her and she uses it for her living expenses - rent, food etc. Those are considered part of school expenses - the COA on which financial aid is based includes allowances for room and board etc.</p>
<p>Just keep in mind that, if you are receiving any financial aid, scholarships generally reduce your need in FA calculations before they reduce the EFC. Also any grant/scholarship money in excess of tuition/fees is taxable income.</p>