<p>I'm a high school senior whose really interested in attending UCSB. Yet, I don't think I should even bother applying after all the unfortunate news concerning UC's meager distribution of financial aid. </p>
<p>My household income is around $15,000 a year, yes...I am poor. I am the son of a widow and my Mother is the only/primary caregiver. A total of 4 people reside with me in a two bedroom home, it use to be 5(father passed away a year ago). My mother is a substitute teacher and has a part-time salary. She has attained a BS degree, thus making me a 2nd generation college student. I'm also a first generation American. I'm Hispanic(Cuban) and a resident of Florida. I have done extensive community service and I plan to get a job in August. I have also done about 16 AP/IB/College courses(I'm going to take 6 more college classes, yet senior year doesn't count...) and maintained a fairly adequate GPA(A average). I plan to improve my SAT scores in October, I currently have a 1710(I know, Its not good). I have also engaged in several clubs during my high school career.</p>
<p>So....after telling you my personal and financial history, what do you suggest? Is this school a possibility or a fantasy? Is there any way I can get financial aid? PLEASE, HELP ME!</p>
<p>You will get a ***** load of financial aid with that income… damn near free ride + get a job, you should be fine… Seriously.</p>
<p>That was option A…</p>
<p>However…
I suggest since you are a Florida resident (guarantied you are from Miami) whom is Cuban that you should sell cocaine like Scarface. $$$ Tony Montana didn’t need school.</p>
<p>^Thanks for the optimism tfizzle:)</p>
<p>You also sound like a really good candidate for scholarships. It might take a lot of work to find and apply to them but it could be well worth your time. Start researching now!!</p>
<p>You will be fine. The UCs have the Blue and Gold Program, which guarantees full tuition (at least) for families with income lower than 80,000 if they show sufficient need. My household income was about 50,000 for a family of 5, and I am getting 22,000 dollars a year in grants from SB, and an additional 8,000 in loans (though we fortunately won’t need them). You will be fine.</p>
<p>Thank you mallen5938. You give me hope. I’ll apply to UCSB, regardless of the pessimism of several other people on college confidential. Although, the blue and gold program is only for Cal residents. I live in Florida…</p>
<p>OOS financial aid is really lousy at the UC schools. You only lose the app fee by applying, but I suggest you concentrate on schools that are known for more generous financial aid.</p>