<p>Filled out the FAFSA for my son's sophomore year. Have a 22 year old daughter who is going to go to school also this fall (with a 6th grader and 10th grader still at home). My EFC last school year was 10769....this new one for 2007-08 is 5566. I thought his award letter would be a little better than last year, we received nothing. Same story this year. Could I be doing something wrong. Most people I talk to think he should be getting some kind of help. Does anyone have any ideas or advice to pass along to me. I would appreciate it very much. It's absolutely frustrating and scary to keep getting these huge loans each year. I know it's my fault for not planning for the future when they were little, but it's always been paycheck to paycheck like most people. Thanks to anyone who can relate, shed some light, give me a "what-for", or just some comforting words.....lol</p>
<p>By "most people you talk to" I guess you mean financial planners? One's neighbor or the local dentist really dosen't have the proper info to really evaluate.
tons of websites available that can give you hints such as what debt "helps you" what debt hurts you, as it applies toward the fafsa. They will have many more tips, too. They will also tell you about filing an appeal, if you feel something about your situation is not properly reflected in your paperwork.
Yes it is unfortunate that you couldn't/didn't plan better for your youngsters education as they were growing up. Now you're in a tough spot.
I think if you'll seek these other helpful websites, you'll find tips that may help you better review your fafsa, and perhaps reflect a favorable change. Good luck, and don't give up!</p>
<p>pb&j - You probably haven't given us enough information to really help you out very much. For instance, does the school "promise" to meet full need? Some do, some don't. Are there other scholarships (merit? outside scholarships?) that are being applied to your need?</p>
<p>Really, if you have questions like this you need to get on the phone with your son's financial aid department. They should be helpful - but if they aren't, press them for answers. Do it today.</p>
<p>Yes - please provide more information. It helps if we know what school, or type of school it is. What does their website say about meeting financial need?</p>
<p>where do we get the money?</p>
<p>*Most people I talk to think he should be getting some kind of help. *</p>
<p>unfortunately, many of us have been deluded into thinking that most colleges have scholarships for students who are accepted.
The truth is, most colleges don't, and the ones that do, don't usually offer to meet 100% of need.</p>
<p>There are ways to cut college costs/loans, but the most reliable way to save money is to cut expenses, by attending an instate school or community college for some of your coursework.</p>