Question about financial help - FAFSA

[aijan 0]

Hello there,

I'm planning to go back to school next semester (spring 2010).

I'm doing some research to get Financial help (FAFSA) to pay my tuition. The best scenario is getting "grants" rather than "loans"... So, what will increase my chances to get an "unpaid" aid?

Here is my situation is:

I have two bachelor degrees from overseas. I've never attended school in the US. I want to go for a Master Degree... I didn't work last year... and we think that with my husband's income alone, i might be eligible for a Federal financial aid.... However, some people told me if this is my choice, the FAFSA will probably not give me the "grant" BUT "a loan" instead !! and even if I decide to go for an American Bachelor degree, i will not be eligible because i already have 2 bachelor degrees (even if they are from an other country) ... I'm not sure about their statements !!

I really wish to go to school, but I need some financial help

Please tell me what do you think? what should I do? apply for a Master degree? or a Bachelor?

Please don't hesitate to add any other advice that might be useful for my FAFSA application.

Thank you in advance.

[Malrothien 6]

If you fall under the income guidelines for a PEL grant - you will get one. Otherwise, the financial aid of your college/university will let you know from the FAFSA that you are not eligible for PEL, but are eligible for federal loans.

[milimelo 4,572]

Depending on the degree you want to go for, you may be able to get a grant from the department - free tuition if you're their graduate assistant for 20 hrs a week - you may want to look into that when deciding what to study. Better chances of getting grants when you're in a masters or doctoral program.

My sister got everything covered for her master's studies - and she is an international student.

[New Beginnings 32]

Also check out places like Fastweb.com it helps you find scholorships and grants that you may be eligible for. Look around everywhere, google grants for the field you're going into, look at your bank a lot of times they offer scholorships or grants.