I am returning to school at age 59...need 85 credits for a bachelors...and then hoping to get accepted to a Master's program

I have applied to PSU in Portland, OR for their online degree program and also filed an online FAFSA.

I am in some very challenging times financially, unemployed and not making much at self-employment. I will need financial aid to accomplish completing school.

I talked briefly with the PSU financial aid office. My understanding from them is I could be eligible for a PELL grant of about $5800...and a max of $12, 500 in student loans. Due to late filing, I understood there may not be any Pell money left for '09. and the $12, 500 in loans would not be enough for tuition and help with living expenses.

Are there any other realistic opportunities for loans? Is the cap using FAFSA a maximum of $12, 500. Is this the amount of both subsidized and unsubsidized loans. Is there anyway I can increase this $12,500 amount higher?

Any help would be greatly appreciated

best regards,

Galen

My understanding is that the $12,500 figure applies to subsidized student loans, where the interest that accrues while you're in school is paid by the feds.  You can get student loans beyond that, you'll just have to pay the accumulated interest once you graduate.

But I'm the first to admit I'm not a financial aid expert -- and that stuff is confusing enough that to me it's halfway to being a tax attorney!   I'd ask the FA people at PSU, they ought to be able to help you.

-=Steve=-

Steve,

   you are so right about the figure cost going back to college. I have my asso.degrees(2) now I am working on my bachlor degree, I am having trouble with getting help. I do have a pellet amount and I have had to borrow mone also.

hi,

    Have you tyied both of the suband non sub money from the government? Have you checked into the money coming from the government? Keep your head up and keep checking. Their is also grants. Good Luck with your searching.