How does financial aid work?

How does financial aid work if I move to another state? ?

• I live in Arizona and I have a great opportunity to move to Hawaii for a year and attend school in Kailua Kona. However, I'm poor as could possibly be and the only reason I'm able to attend community college in AZ is because of financial aid. I would be staying with my uncle for the year and of course I would get a job. So housing and food isn't too big of an issue. However, I'm wondering if I moved down there would I be able to attend school imediately or do I have to wait a year to establish residency before I can be eligible for financial aid in Hawaii? I know it's really expensive to live down there and I'm aware it would still cost me if I had financial aid. If anyone could help me understand this better that would be great. This is a great opportunity for me and I would like to know the situation before I make a set decision. Thanks =)

• Answer:

  It is going to be difficult for you to get in-state tuition in Hawaii You would have to (1) prove you moved to Hawaii for reasons other than school - for example you move to Hawaii for a particular job (2) you must be in Hawaii for a minimum of 12 months prior to attempting to enroll in school (3) if you are a minor, then your parents resident address is going to be used even if you meet all other requirements (4) over the age of 19, but under the age of 24.. you would have to be able to prove that your parents don't claim you on their taxes & haven't for at least the previous year (5) additionally, you need to be able to show that you filed Hawaii state income taxes for yourself.. and this brings it back to you must have a job for a year before enrolling in school Check it out yourself... look at the residency requirements for the school you are interested in... what I am reading from is from HILO & is based on Hawaii's state laws for tuition/residency KYLE -- most times you give good advice; however, in this case, you are NOT correct.... some states have the rules like you are describing.. I took the time to read up on the Hawaii state's laws on this matter before I answered her.... obviously you didn't do that or you would know that Hawaii only goes by parent's resident address up to the age of 19 (as well as the other items I pointed out)....