Edna Said:

How do I go about getting a student loan?

We Answered:

File the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online at http://fafsa.ed.gov. Federal student loans are not credit based; everyone can take out student loans, as long as any prior student loans are not in default.

Once you file the FAFSA and are accepted into school, your FAFSA will be processed and you will be awarded federal loans and any grants that you are eligible for. Also, you can ask at the financial aid office about doing a loss of employment appeal.

Felicia Said:

When getting a student loan, can that money also go toward room and board? Like the dorm?

We Answered:

Normally your student loans are for the total package, meaning tutition and room and board. BUT, be very careful about getting student loans. Get Stafford loans first and then the other FEDERAL loans. Get a job or something/anything else to keep from ever getting private college loans. They will rape you for the rest of your life. Go talk to the financial aid counselor at the college you want to attend to discuss all of your financial aid options before you jump in with both feet with any college loans. You may also want to look into renting off campus. Although it is cool to live on campus you can pay tons less by renting a room close to campus. $10k is a lot of money to pay for a room or half a room plus some cafeteria food. Been there done that. For more good educational learning on Student Loans go read a few books by Suze Orman, she will keep you out of some common troubles when it comes to finances and student loans. Good luck.

Ronnie Said:

Will getting a student loan for a personal issue affect the amount of money I am awarded by financial aid?

We Answered:

I think this is what you mean: By taking out a loan, will it affect the grant(s) you were awarded?

NO, it will not...

But do keep in mind that you are only entitled to take out a student loan for an expense school related. (This could include books, tuition, transportation, etc.) You do not have to show documentation that you used the money for a school expense, but taking out loans for personal issues can get very convenient. Before you know it you will be in debt up to your ears. So be careful, and keep in mind, you have to pay the money back, not them...

Tina Said:

How would i go about getting a student loan?

We Answered:

education.mypressonline.com - it provides some tips about applying to US federal and state grants for college students.

Nancy Said:

what are the steps to getting a student loan?

We Answered:

If you want a Stafford or other federal loan (these have fixed interest rates, which is good), you will first need to fill out a FAFSA form: http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/index.htm. This will get you started in the process and help determine how much you are eligible to borrow.

Next, research. Different banks and some credit cards also offer private loans. You will want to compare their interest rates, fees, and terms before committing to one. (BankRate can help you there.) Even though Stafford interest rates are fixed, different banks will associate different fees and repayment options with them. When I was applying for aid earlier this year, Discover had a very good deal on loans.

You should also check the website of the college you intend to go to; generally, there's a section about student aid information. You should also get an estimate on how much you will need for the semester/school year so you don't over-borrow. There should be information provided on estimated total tuition, books & fees, etc.