questions on college loans? please help?
i can take out a loan, but was wondering who should cosign? my parents will not – but my best friend offered. being that she already has student loans, i’m not sure if thats a great option, or really how that even works. i just need to get through 3 more semesters to graduate.
also wondering – my parents will not fill out the FAFSA form. apparently i need their information.. is there a way that i can have independent status and not need their info?
any info and opinions welcome.. thanks.
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Because you have moved-out, and are of college-age, then you are probably 18 years old. You are an adult. You can sign for your own student loan — that’s what student loans are all about. Study hard, graduate, and then begin to pay those loans back. I know – on TV you hear all these 25 year olds whining about their student loans. But it’s a small price to pay for a college education.
If you have truly moved-out for good, then your parents are not involved in your FAFSA. Your FAFSA is about your ability to pay for college. If you’re on you own, then you’re on your own.
Once again – verify everything with the college’s financial aid department. They are willing to counsel future students. Write everything down, and ask a lot of questions.
Now – here is my advice as a parent. You are in a difficult situation, and you need to make the best of it. In 4 years you will have a college degree, and you will be able to support yourself with no problem. (You might need to live modestly, but you can do it!) Until that time, you will need to work — whether at a job or in the classroom. Some young adults (with parents who give them money) see their late-teens and early-twenties as social/party/”experience” times. You’re probably not going to be able to do that. You will need to study hard and always “keep your eyes on the prize.”
I’m not sure if you’re planning on going to school in the Fall or not. I would say probably not if you’re still lining-up financial aid. So – get a full-time job and save your money. Pay rent – even a small amount – to your friend’s parents, just to show the FAFSA people that you are an adult on your own. Decide where you want to go to college, and visit their financial aid office (don’t try to do it all on the phone.) Realize that you probably won’t have the active social life, but study hard and you will make it.
Hope that helps.