<p>So I was given a handsome package with aid and scholarship my first year and then to find out I have to pay an extra $10,000 for my sophomore year (above what I paid before), presumably becuase my mother (who was a single mother, and listed as the sole payer for my education) just got married recently. Anyway, talking with the aid department at my school they're saying basically what I've listed above, yet I dont have any more money to pay with than I did before. Is there any sort of possibly rebuttal with financial aid departments, or am I forced to take what they give me? Please let me know anything.
Thanks.</p>
<p>Unless your mother's husband is unemployed, I believe that colleges would expect him to chip in and help with your college expenses, which is a reason that some people considering getting married wait until their kids graduate from college.</p>
<p>Even if your new stepfather doe not pay, your mother's spending power has increased by virtue of marriage. She does not have to pay (or pay at the reduced rate) for many of the household expenses.</p>
<p>This is an issue that comes up repeatedly on CC. And unfortunately the simple fact is that FAFSA and the schools take into account the income and assets of a the custodial parent's spouse whether they have been married for 15 years or 15 minutes. I have not heard of anyone finding a way round this. It is, as Northstarmom said, a reason to possibly put off marriage while your child is in college. But it is probably something most people are not aware of until the deed is done. Sorry - no good advice I can give you. Good luck.</p>
<p>You go find yourself a wife. Perhaps your stepfather has a kid. You 2 could marry, and go independent.</p>
<p>Is your father living? If so, and his income and assets are less, move in with him. He then becomes the "custodial" parent and you'll qualify for more aid. If he's not living, maybe another relative. This just was successful in CA, and their EFC went from $20,012 to $15!</p>