<p>Hi. I currently attend penn state university. I didn't do as well as I'd hope my first year. so my parents are not in support of me retuning in the fall and are not going to financially support me. I obviously dont agree with them and need help and information on taking out a student loan. Is there anyone out there who has paid their college education without the help of their parents? If so how did you do and what service did you use to do so. I would not have a cosigner. I need some help. Thanks!!!</p>
<p>Did you submit a FAFSA? The only loans you qualify for without a co-signer is the Stafford which has a max of $6,500 for a Sophomore. FAFSA has to have been filed in order to qualify. </p>
<p>You will not get financial aid just because your parents won’t pay. So you would have to make up the difference with savings, working, and any merit scholarships you have. </p>
<p>Most people in this situation take a year off to work and then transfer to a much cheaper school. Perhaps if you do this your parents will reconsider their support. </p>
<p>Unfortunately you don’t have many options. No money fairy is going to come and pay for everything. And taking on large loan debt is a very bad idea.</p>