How can I get financial aid for college?

How can I make sure I get financial aid for college?

• I'm 21 and live with my father just to help him through a divorce. He's been claiming me on his taxes every year but this year he said he's not going to because I pay for my own bills and school and because of how much he makes I never get any financial aid. Someone told me that because I still live at home my dad HAS to claim me which I don't understand because I'm still supporting myself and I cannot afford school and books at full price with no help. I'm already up to my ears in student loans. I'm the first in my family to go to college so please help... there's gotta be someway I can get some help financially with schooling.

• Answer:

  You should talk to your financial aid adviser at the college you are attending. They will be able to guide you in the right direction. They are trained in all the rules. The rules change every year. There are rules on age and the FAFSA. You need to know if you fall into the category where your father has to fill out the FAFSA with you or not. You are 21. If you have been going to college more than 2 years, you will be eligible for bigger loans. This could help. You may be eligible for Student Worker. This allows you to work 20 hours per week (usually on campus). The employer has to work with your class schedule. I worked a desk job. When we weren't busy I worked on my homework. So I was earning money while doing my homework. You can also check on scholarships. Talk to your college financial aid adviser. He has a list of scholarships you may be eligible for. Write one main essay on yourself, include your accomplishments, clubs, extracurricular activities, and struggles you have gone through to get to where you are today. Save it and you can alter it to meet the requirements of each scholarship you apply for. Good luck.