I was awarded the full loan amount ($9500) for a freshman independent student in 2014-2015
This year, I’ve only been awarded $7013 in both sub and unsubsidized loans, when for a sophomore independent student it is $10,500, where $4500 can be subsidized.
I was also awarded work study ($3000 for the school year).
1st question:
From everyone’s experience, will the FAO approve a written request to award me the $10,500 in loans and to drop the work study amount? To subtract the $3000 in work study and add it to the $7013 in loans?
No one has been able to tell me whether the amounts awarded to students for work study are selected randomly by the school to attempt to meet COA, or if it’s selected by the Department of Ed. through information obtained by FAFSA?
2nd question:
I’m considering applying for SNAP benefits.
Do I need to be solely awarded work study aid on my award letter to be eligible for SNAP benefits?
I’ve read that it’s easier for college students that are work study eligible to receive SNAP benefits because it shows that they are in need of all types of financial aid through their school.
Or must I be employed through work study to be eligible for benefits?
Anyone with experience and advice would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks!
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I’ve worked in insurance the last seven years of my life before considering college, and now that I’m here I don’t feel like going back to a minimum wage job. It makes me feel like I’m 21 again.
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Oh brother. You would rather collect food stamps than work?
You cant get food stamps unless you are working 20 hrs a week.
Consider it an opportunity to structure your time, to meet more people and develop skills.
FWS is awarded by the school. Talk to your financial aid office about reducing the FWS award so you can borrow more, if that is what you choose to do.
I complete paperwork for students who are applying for SNAP. I simply complete the items that I am requested to provide, and I don’t counsel anyone on their eligibility for benefits. When I complete my state form, I am not asked for any information about what a student “could” earn … I am asked to complete income information for a time period. If the student didn’t earn any money, I don’t put any earnings on the form. From my state’s website: In general, DHS will review your expenses, assets, and income to determine what, if any, benefits for which you may be eligible.
I thought I read that a grad student may qualify for SNAP if awarded FWS or working 20 or more hours a week. Meaning, if awarded FWS but working zero hours, could still get SNAP. Maybe this is specific to my state.
If awarded work study and work study has * run out*, they would still be eligible for food stamps in Wi, but I dont have the impression that if they were awarded work study, but didnt want to work, that they would be eligible.