Last month we launched our "Ask the Expert" tool — and since then, your questions have been steadily rolling in. At first I was surprised by the number of inquiries we received this way. I thought the Student LoanDown community would use the comments section to ask questions — but I guess you take that section literally and use it for actual comments, not questions!
Nonetheless, I'm glad you're finding "Ask the Expert" useful. It's certainly useful for us bloggers because we learn exactly what kind of information you'd like more of — and then we can share it with the rest of our community.
So here's a question we received from a concerned parent about financial aid timing (certainly appropriate as spring semester is just a few months away):
My daughter is a freshman. We did not take out any loans for the first, fall, semester, but would like to take out one for the spring semester. Is it possible to get a Stafford or Perkins loan for the spring semester, or have we missed this cycle and have to wait for the fall of 2008?
And here's my response:
No, you haven't missed the cycle. (Whew!) If you haven't already completed the FAFSA
(Free Application for Federal Student Aid), that's your first step. The 2007 FAFSA covers the 2007-2008 academic year through June 30, 2008, and will determine your daughter's eligibility for financial aid.
I'd suggest that you check with the financial aid office at your daughter's school. Low-interest Federal Perkins Loans
One last thing: As a parent, if you're interested in borrowing to help your daughter pay for school, check out the Federal PLUS Loan for parents. It's also not based on financial need but does require a minimal credit check.
Please keep your questions coming — they're interesting, they're relevant, and ultimately, they make this a better blog!
hi staci, I was wondering if there is any way I can still get a Stafford Loan. I applied for financial aid for this year and did not receive any. Is there any way I can still receive it for my spring semester in school?
Anonymous, tell me a bit more about your situation. Did you complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and have the results sent to your school? Are you attending school at least half-time?
Do I have to fill out something seperate to attend and pay for summer semesters?
kristi, it actually depends on your school. Each school has a different process for summer school financial aid. I'd suggest you talk with your financial aid office, and soon, since summer semester may have started already! :)
Wow. I love the new look that you added the recent posts widget! This is truly one of the best done corporate blogs out there. Not to mention that the content is stellar and readable, not an easy task given the subject matter. Nice to drop by and see the changes.
Thanks, Mary! Keep the suggestions coming!