So, my parents do not approve of me choosing to go to UAB. They want to pay my tuition for me to go to another school that I do not want to go to, and I want to pay for my tuition at UAB. They don’t want me to take out loans, so they are putting up as many barriers for me as possible. I’m 18, but the on-campus housing contract requires considers 19 and under minors for whatever reason and requires your parents to also sign a copy of the housing contract. Which, of course, they are refusing to do. What can I do here?
Contact the school and ask (politely) why an 18 year old needs parent signatures. Now…, your parents have to complete FAFSA for you to get federal loans. Even if they did it this year, they will have to do it every year.
In the state of Alabama you are not a legal adult until the age of 19. It is not just the university. I found this out when my 18 year old son went to Auburn.
These rules apply only if you are not an emancipated minor. Becoming an “emancipated minor” has drawbacks though.
If your parents take a hard line, then you must either submit to them regarding their college limitations, or not go to college at all until you can do it without anything from them (including signatures on housing, financial aid forms, etc. as well as money).
Let’s step back here…
How much does UAB cost?
Why do you want to go there?
Where do they want you to go?
What does that place cost?
Why don’t you want to go there?
I have a friend who’s son wants to go to UC Santa Cruz although he is out of state. It costs $60,000 for out of state.
It is not that much better than other options that cost less. I would not let my child take out loans that they will be burdened for many many years in the future either.