Kara Whaley
New member
Ok, this is a bit lengthly but I really need some answers.
First off, I am entering college with 35 credit hours that I acquired from taking college classes during high school. I have enough scholarships and financial aid to pay for this year entirely.
I am afraid of next year, as I have heard financial aid drastically reduces after the first year. My family financial situation has only gotten worse. I actually haven't lived with either of my parents in over 5 years. My dad has been in and out of prison and my mother is lost of drugs with no income whatsoever. In January, I was able to contact my dad and he was completely willing to help fill out the FAFSA with me (by phone since he doesn't live in the same city as me). My EFC was 0 (annual income of 20k with 2 dependents).
Here is where it gets suckish- my dad was put back in prison in May. He won't be out for who knows how long. Probably about May of 2011.
My point and question is: How am I going to do my FAFSA for financial aid next year? I will definitely need all the aid I can get. I didn't take out any loans for this year, and I know that is an option. However, I'd like to save that as a last resort.
I am very much aware that you have to be 24 to be considered an independent, or like have a kid or be married. I just really don't know what to do.
Thanks for your time.
First off, I am entering college with 35 credit hours that I acquired from taking college classes during high school. I have enough scholarships and financial aid to pay for this year entirely.
I am afraid of next year, as I have heard financial aid drastically reduces after the first year. My family financial situation has only gotten worse. I actually haven't lived with either of my parents in over 5 years. My dad has been in and out of prison and my mother is lost of drugs with no income whatsoever. In January, I was able to contact my dad and he was completely willing to help fill out the FAFSA with me (by phone since he doesn't live in the same city as me). My EFC was 0 (annual income of 20k with 2 dependents).
Here is where it gets suckish- my dad was put back in prison in May. He won't be out for who knows how long. Probably about May of 2011.
My point and question is: How am I going to do my FAFSA for financial aid next year? I will definitely need all the aid I can get. I didn't take out any loans for this year, and I know that is an option. However, I'd like to save that as a last resort.
I am very much aware that you have to be 24 to be considered an independent, or like have a kid or be married. I just really don't know what to do.
Thanks for your time.