Financial aid questions

<p>I have recently received my financial aid award and after looking at it I am a little confused. I was awarded $3,500.00 FED DIRECT SUB, $2,000.00 FED DIRECT UNSUB, $5,645.00 FED PELL GRANT, $400.00 FED SEOG, $1,000 Safety net, and $3,700 VA Guar all totaling to $16,245. My estimated cost of attendance is $25,640. I’m concerned because that leaves $9,395 that’s uncovered and I am not sure what I should do to make up the difference? Do I take out loans? Are they going to ask for a check before I start or what?</p>

<p>right now you have been given the max amount of loans.</p>

<p>Are you a dependent or an independent student?</p>

<p>If you are a dependent student, you can borrow another 4k (unsubsidized) if your parents are denied a PLUS loan.</p>

<p>If you are an independent student, you will be able to borrow another 4k (unsubsidized)</p>

<p>I am dependent</p>

<p>Sent from my EVO using CC</p>

<p>Also with the additional 4k that still leaves me with an additional 5k that I have to pay when will this be due? Upon admission? And what type of loan should I get to take care of this additional 5k?</p>

<p>Sent from my EVO using CC</p>

<p>You really shouldn’t take any more loans. Do you have a job? If not, start working now, and put that money toward the $5000. Many schools will allow you to set up a 10 month payment plan, starting with the first payment due around June 1, for whatever is due after financial aid is accounted for. Some people just pay the bill in July/August for the fall term, and December for the spring term, dividing the personal cost in 1/2. Are you paying for school all by yourself?</p>

<p>No I’m not paying by myself and I haven’t taken into account scholarships either</p>

<p>Sent from my EVO using CC</p>

<p>Not helpful this year, but for future years …</p>

<p>Consider being an RA in the Dorms. Basically, an upperclassman to keep order, watch over the kids, help kids in trouble, build “spirit”/activities, etc. I believe you can get the room for free, and maybe a few bucks on top of that. But, you have to be a real people person.</p>

<p>Applying to be an RA is a good idea…but do NOT count on that for certain. RA jobs are very competitive on most campuses.</p>

<p>How much were you expecting to pay? Nothing? If so, then you need to find a less expensive school. Your parents should be kicking in something and so should you. Work this summer, find a part time job during the school year. Maybe visit your friendly financial aid officer and ask for any unclaimed work study funds and a job through that venue since you do have unmet need. You can put your payment on a monthly plan so you can pay some of it as you earn it. Are you a commuter? Is this a state school?</p>