If you are a college student trying to figure out financing for college, it can be pretty confusing without some background knowledge. Many students try to get scholarships and grants to finance their education, or even pay for their classes out of pocket as they go. However, these three choices aren?t always an option.
Some people may not qualify for government grants or scholarships, or they might not have the money to pay for college out of their own funds. College keeps getting more expensive every year, and with an average college education costing tens of thousands of dollars, sometimes the best answer may be a student loan. Student loans come in a variety of types, and it?s important for students to do their research to pick the student loan that is best for them.
Probably the best type of loan for students is a government-backed one. Government loans to student usually have the best interest rates and the most attractive repayment plans. The government backed rates and terms are college loans are regulated by Congress, and are not subject to market fluctuations in the same manner that the private extensive of funds may be affected.
Another reason loans from the government are so attractive is that the term for repayment can be a decade or longer, in some cases. In most cases, re-payments are deferred for a period of several months immediately after graduation. This allows students to get financially established once they have completed their education.
Since the government regulates these educational loans, there is a very particular process for receiving one. The process begins with the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), which can be filled in online, however, be aware that the deadlines are very strict. The FAFSA analyzes a family?s financial situation in order to calculate the EFC (expected family contribution). The amount of any monies extended is determined by the EFC, and it also helps determine which program is the best for a student and their family.
The most common and most sought after source of funds in this area is the Stafford Loan. The Stafford is very attractive to many students because its approval is not based on a student?s credit score. For students with poor credit, or no credit, this feature can be very beneficial. Another attractive feature of this source is the amount of money that may be borrowed. Depending on a student?s year of enrollment, up to $20,500 per year may be borrowed to help fund educational expenses.
There are other options in government student funds besides the Stafford. The Perkins Loan is another source that may finance up to $60,000 in educational costs through graduate school. Additionally, some parents may want to take loans out on behalf of their children. For them, the PLUS (Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students) may be the ideal tool. PLUS loans are designed only to cover gaps in tuition coverage; they are not designed to help cover a student?s living expenses.
With help from your school?s financial aid office, students can put together a financial aid package that is greatly enhanced with government-backed student college loans. The government is scheduled to originate more than $100 billion in student aid to help students go to school. If you want to go to school and need help paying for it, the government may be able to help you with a financing package that will help you achieve your dream of a college education.
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