<p>Hello, I'm currently a student on an academic scholarship (not full) as a transfer student (sophomore). My question is are there any alternative loans available not through my parents for off campus or on campus living? I am driving 45 minutes or more depending on traffic and my home is simply not an adequate study environment. I asked the school office and they basically said I'd need a cosigner. My parents are not willing to co sign anything and they make a pretty good living so we are not eligible for that much aid. Would my best bet be to go independent from them and just take out loans for my entire education? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.</p>
<p>You can’t just “go independent”…that’s not possible without getting married or something. </p>
<p>Sounds like you’re just going to have to continue commuting. </p>
<p>You might try arranging your schedule for next semester so that you’re only going 3 days a week…or find someone to carpool with.</p>
<p>First of all, you can’t just “go independent.” You need to meet at least one of the FAFSA criteria to file as independent student. So unless you’re a military veteran, married, supporting your own dependents, were orphaned before age 18 or are over age 24, you won’t be considered independent for financial aid purposes.</p>
<p>As a dependent student the only loans you are able to take out in your name are federal Stafford loans. ($6500 for sophomores; $7500 for juniors and seniors) Probably not enough to pay for your room & board, assuming you’re not already using your Stafford to pay your tuition. </p>
<p>Any other loan will require a co-signer.</p>