<p>Regarding the sentence at the bottom of the FAFSA (prior to the signature lines) ... would expenses such as the student's health insurance, clothing, and entertainment (items that are generally considered part of college expenses) -- i.e. not tuition or books -- be acceptable as part of financial aid college expenses? We want DS to begin to contribute to these expenses and there may be a small overage in his loan to do so. Any guidance appreciated. Thanks.</p>
<p>College expenses cost of attendance:</p>
<p>direct cost billed to you
Tuition
Mandatory fees
Room
Board
Student health insurance (if the school does not feel you have adequate coverage)</p>
<p>Indirect cost (things which you can have more control over how much money is being spent). Your son should get a job Now and start saving, a summer job(the contribution from summer earnings is money that the school expects him to put toward these things) and if possible an on/off-campus job to help offset some of these expenses
Books
Sundry items: entertainment, laundry, clothing, personal expenses
transportation (train, plane, automobile, bus)</p>
<p>Keep in mind that most schools do not meet 100% demonstrated need. If there is a loan being taken out that money most likely will be going toward his direct costs. He should not count on any money coming back to him.</p>
<p>Thanks. The job aside just for a moment, would the “sundry” items be acceptable for use of any loan overage? Want to be sure that we’re adhering to the requirements.</p>
<p>Check the cost of attendance at the schools where your son is applying. They may have it listed as a miscellaneous expenses (which would be included in his cost of attendance). Will he need a new computer? Some outside scholarships will let you use the money for a one time purchase of a new computer.</p>