What do you think about the University of Iowa?

Do you think I would have a chance at an independent appeal for financial aid?

• I'm currently in my second semester at Iowa State. Last year my mom and I went to the financial aid office to see about getting special conditions because she was in the process of a divorce with my father and was living in a different place. At the time, I didn't have a relationship with my father. Around Christmas last year my mother and I got into a fight and she said some nasty things that were verbally abusive and upsetting. She is a controlling parent and has said mean things before but she took it too far this time. I haven't spoken to her since she flipped out and lost it at me (December). I then started talking to my dad again and as soon as I left his house to come back to Iowa State I felt that it's doing me more harm than good talking to him. I feel he's controlling like my mom. He's said stuff like "you don't know what's best and "you're too sensitive." I've thought about getting an apartment and moving out of his house after this semester. I don't want to speak to either of my parents because of their emotional abuse. I would want to transfer to Northern Illinois University. Do you think it would be worth it to try and go to the NIU financial aid office and see if I might have a chance at an independent appeal? Do you think May to August would be enough time or would it have to be longer?

• Answer:

  No you don't have a chance. I wouldn't waste your time with the paperwork. Arguing with a parent isn't grounds for a dependency override. Dependent students can get aid just like independent students do.. if you don't qualify for grants, you can always take out loans. If you don't want loans you can get a job and pay for your classes as you go.