How does tuition assistance work?

How could I get more financial assistance while attending college?

• Hi, I'm a full time student at Paradise Valley Community College transferring to ASU and well I had to quit my job in order to attend because my work place didn't like my availability during college so I need money for gas, clothes, and stuff like that, just necessaties. I try and get help from my family but they're not wealthy at all and believe I'm on my own now. I got a grant of 3800$ and a refund of 600$ that all went on books, my tuition for this year is 3000$ Including the 600$ refunded already so will I be getting the remainder back sometime? Also, where else could I look to get financial assistance during college? Thanks for the help!

• Answer:

  If you want more assistance, you need to take out federal student loans. It is impossible for most students without jobs, savings, or parental support to fund their education fully with grants (unless they are a veteran or active military). You need to take out loans to pay for your living costs. Also, look for ways to save money on books. Often new editions of textbooks are way too expensive and not any better than an older edition. I buy older editions when possible, and usually spend $40 - $50/semester on books. There's no reason that your books should cost $600.