Student Loans in the U.S.

[Wyatt's Torch 45]

Hi folks,

So...I've been looking for work in this area for about six weeks now, and have had no nibbles on any of my applications. My wife and I had a lengthy discussion last night about me going back to school and getting a higher degree. I've always been open to the idea from an idealistic standpoint, but the financial aspect has always been my biggest concern. My wife makes good money, but we've always needed my income to be on top of everything.

Anyhow, I'm wondering about the logistics of taking out a student loan. First of all, is it even possible for non-citizens? I'll obviously do my own research, but if any of you have experience with going back to school / taking out a student loan in the U.S., I'd love to hear about it.

I haven't thought about going back to school seriously for several years, solely because of the financial aspect. We've already got her student loans from several years ago, as well as other standard debts / bills etc. But at this point, getting a degree might be the best option for me personally, and for us as a couple.

Thoughts?

[Oksana & Max 94]

As long as you have a GC you can get student's loans. Student loans are not considered federal benefits, since you are required to repay them. While they are an extra expense they worth it trust me. I am burried with student loans but it was worth every penny for me.

[Brian121957 43]

If there is any way to get a "personal" loan go that route.

Maybe your wife can take 1 class to qualify and then apply for grants to pay living expenses so you have money to take your classes.

Take a lesser job and take classes at night.

I am not saying that going in to debt for education is a bad thing. Just saying that "student" loans are not all that great and they have some real negatives if your personal finances turn for the worse.

This comes from a 50+ year old with 4 kids in or through collage.

[AmyWrites 593]

I agree with Brian. You can't get rid of student loans though bankruptcy, for example, and for graduate school, usually only private loans are available, and those come with their own set of ####### to deal with.

I'd only do it if it was for studying something with a guaranteed opportunity of getting a better job. Liberal arts is not one of those areas.

[MelissaAndJordan 5]

Wyatt's Torch,

I have no expertise to offer. Just wanted to say thank you for posting this question. My fiance is very interested in going back to school as well and this was on my list of things to ask the VJ community about once he gets here. So, it is great to hear now what others have to say. Everyday I am profoundly grateful for this community.

[ashenflowers 5]

Wyatt, I've returned to college since moving to the U.S. I applied for financial aid, and was offered a student loan (which I have yet to accept, because I'm wanting to avoid the debt), AND I was given a grant that paid for my tuition for this year!! Hurray!

Also, you've been in the U.S. for over a year, so it doesn't apply for you, but to anyone else here's some important info: If you've just recently moved to the U.S. (within a year), check with your school's policy on residency requirements. I waited an extra semester before starting full time (partially because I was also still deciding on my major), because I had to live in California for a year to be considered a resident for tuition purposes, rather than an international student. And of course had to show some paperwork to prove it. It's worth it. The tuition was LITERALLY ten (10!) times cheaper.