Remembering Non Traditonal Students

A "non-traditional" student, in many cases is forgotten when it comes to financial aid, and I would like to help some of you who have been "sitting out" for awhile figure out how to finance your education. Making a decision to go back to school, often times take a lot of preparation and thought on your part, and it can turn into a real financial nightmare at the same time. For, in addition to tution, books, and various expenses that go hand in hand with college, you might have other expenses to consider as well, such as: housing, child care, replacement of full time earnings, and commuting expenses. The good news for you, however, is that more and more colleges are starting programs to help suit your needs and your circumstances. My advice? Choose a school, and then find out the availability of services suited specifically to you.

Next, I would advise trying to obtain some federal funding, which is described in detail below:

The largest grant program is the Federal Pell Grant Program. Its purpose is to make sure that all eligible students have some money to continue their education after high school. The amount of each Pell Grant depends on your financial need, cost of education, and the amount of time you are enrolled during the academic year. The maximum award for the 98-99 academic year was $3,000. The anticipated maximum award for the 99-00 academic year is $3,125. A Pell Grant is often combined with other aid.

To be eligible, you must:

 show financial need  be enrolled as an undergraduate and have not already received a Bachelor's Degree  be enrolled at least half-time in an eligible program of study  be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident or meet certain citizenship requirements

The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG) is designed to supplement other sources of financial aid for students with financial need. An SEOG ranges from $100 to $4,000. To qualify for an SEOG, you must:

 be enrolled at least half-time  be enrolled as an undergraduate student Students who receive a Pell Grant get priority for an SEOG.

It costs nothing to apply for a Pell Grant or an SEOG. The first step is to contact the Financial Aid Office at the college you plan to attend and to complete the FAFSA.

The Federal Work Study Program provides students with part-time jobs to earn money for their college expenses. Work Study is offered as part of a financial aid package. Your eligibility and the number of hours you are allowed to work will decide your award amount.

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