<p>I find student loans very confusing and my parents really don't know much either. I am hoping that someone could help me a bit; I've done some research on different loans but still feel completely in the dark. Here is my situation: I will be a junior in college this upcoming fall at NYU (notorious for bad financial aid). My first two years, we took out no loans as I had money for my education set aside. However, that money is now gone. In my financial aid package, I am only offered an unsubsidized Stafford Loan ($2750 each semester). I will need a sizeable loan for these next two years. Basically, I am not sure with what loans I should go with. I've heard to generally steer clear of PLUS loans. I've looked at Finaid.org's chart with private loans but I just end up more confused than before. Also, I'm a bit confused with how to determine Cost of Attendance. I will have my own apartment these next two years and will use loans to cover the cost (which is similar to my room and board if I would be dorming). Will my housing be included in Cost of Attendance? Thanks so much for any help; I really appreciate it!</p>
<p>If your parents qualify for a Parent PLUS loan, that would typically be the better deal as the interest is typically lower than alternative loans....unless you and/or your parents have impecable credit scores.</p>
<p>Regarding housing, most institutions use a "housing allowance" for students who live off-campus.</p>