This week we have another question submitted through our Ask the Experts form. if you have any questions about financial aid or paying for college, be sure to submit them here.
Hi,
This year I did not work at all and so I will not have any tax returns to file. How then do I apply for financial aid and how can it affect my aid? I’ve have had aid for the previous couple of years.
-Solace
The following question was submitted via our Ask the Experts form:
Hi, I am having a problem with FASFA. I submitted my form online, and imported my tax return from 2010, as requested. However, last year I worked full time and went to school at night. This year I go to school full time and work part time. My financial situation has completly changed. What types of documents can I show FASFA that they would consider to be a current reflection of my financial situation?
-Kristy
Thanks for the question, Kristy! This is a fairly common question, and one that you should be able to resolve without too much trouble.
We’ve made it to October, which means it’s once again time for College Money Insider’s monthly list of scholarship deadlines. It may not be the traditional time of year to apply for scholarships, but if you look hard enough, there are some great opportunities available year-round. And the time is ALWAYS right to get some extra cash for college.
To receive a monthly list of upcoming scholarship deadlines right in your inbox, as well as our other financial aid advice and tips, subscribe to College Money Insider here – it’s free!
Now let’s get right to the details of this month’s scholarships…
Today’s guest post is written by Overture Technologies’ Ben Carey. Ben is a 22 year veteran of the student lending industry and the father of a college student. Check out our Resources section to learn more about the differences between PLUS and Private Student Loans.
So, your child has done her part: Great grades, strong SAT’s, taken pretty much every AP course in high school, two sport athlete…Top 5% of her graduating class!
I have Good News and Bad News:
Good News…She has been accepted into the school of her dreams!
Bad News…The four year price tag has you thinking outside your comfort zone!?
The ball is in YOUR court!
Earlier this week, the Federal Reserve announced “Operation Twist” in an attempt to drive down interest rates to spur borrowing and grow the economy. The new measures are mostly targeted at decreasing long-term interest rates, with a priority being the rates for mortgages. However, they could also have some effects on the student loan market, particularly private student loans.
So what changes can you expect to see on your private loans? Unfortunately, the short answer is likely “not many,” as private loan rates are already at a low level. The situation is actually quite similar to that for consumer credit. As USA Today explains:
*Based on average interest rate of loans selected by Marketplace users. Savings may vary.
Need extra money for college? Students won over $130,000 in college scholarships during 2011 at ScholarshipPoints.com.
Win monthly scholarship drawings of up to $10,000!
*Affiliate site opens in new tab
