<p>Vicarious, run the numbers, and see if it can be done. You would need some upfront money to drive to CA (which is a looooong drive and lots of gas needed). You would need to have a place to stay while you find a place to live unless the school has dorms and you get a room, and for a place on the economy, a security deposit and first month’s rent is usually needed. You need to have some living expenses funds, for gas, food, etc. Your school funds are not likely to be available until well into your semester. It is possible you get lucky and they are released sooner, but you can’t count on that. </p>
<p>The COA plus 10% plus the cost of owning a car will probably a good base figure for once you are settled there. The problems is the cost of getting there, finding a place to live, start up costs. That big hunk of change is variable, depending on what options you have. Also driving cross country alone, is not advisable. Is there someone who can go with you. My boys just did it and between the two of them, it took 36 hours,stopping only for meals and gas, but they weren’t as far west as you are going. The trip alone cost them a hunk of more than change. </p>
<p>You can count on something happening that will cost you unexpected money. Car can go on you, you need to see a doctor, dentist, optometrist. My college kid planned everything very carefully, and it all went haywire on him. He’s home for the summer working 12 hour shifts and getting swim lessons lined up to recoup some of the cost, making sandwiches every morning for his meals, because he needs every cent. But he has a roof over his head, three squares guaranteed, and transportation available, not to mention family to step in for any emergencies and for little extras as well. I was on my own, after college, and it was truly tough going. Nothing happy about having to cope with Mr Murphy, my constant companion (By his law, one must live–you know Murphy’s Law?). Money isn’t always the answer but it can buy time and give more options, and not having it is a problem in itself.</p>
<p>Good luck whatever you decide to do. You do need to sit with your grandpa and find out what kind of help he is wiling to give. A private cosigned loan is not the best way to go ,because he would be stuck with it if you die, are disabled, or drop out, as would you.</p>