No clue what I'm doing!!

[jcstarkey8826]

So I've recently been opened up to many opportunities at my current job. These opportunities have much better pay with a degree than without and I will be moving to Pittsburgh, PA. I will have these opportunities until I decide to move as it is with a large company with positions coming open all over.

Ive decided to go back to school, this way when I move to take this job, I will have a much higher starting salary and pay grade, as well as many more areas to pursue. I havent been to school since 2007. I did not flunk out, but I did drop out due to taking less than required credit hours for the semester (11) and losing my scholarship and financial aid, making it impossible for me to continue.

After I left school I couldnt afford a PRIVATE student loan I had taken out, and it defaulted. I had 3 federal loans which were all paid and no missed payments, but the private loan did charge off.

Can I still get a federal student loan to go back to school? Anyone with experience in this, Im so confused and lost. A lot has changed in 5 years.

[beb86]

Does this company have a tuition reimbursement program?

[jcstarkey8826]

Yes, my company will pay 4k per semester as long as my degree focus is finance. (which it is) and I have to have a C grade or better.

[Anonymous]

If I were in your shoes, I would still fill out a FAFSA, and then chat with the Financial Aid office at the school you'll be attending. I'm thinking you should still be able to get a Federal Loan, but like you said - a lot's changed in 5 years, and I would err on the side of caution at this point.

The earlier in 2013 you fill out that FAFSA, though, the better. If you are eligible you'll be in a better position, and if you aren't eligible the worst they can do is tell you no. It would be better to have it and not need it than vice versa.

[jcstarkey8826]

I went ahead and filled out the FAFSA, and just to share this with anyone reading... YOU CAN get a federal student loan, as long as you arent in default currently on any FEDERAL SLs. I had 4 federal student loans, all paid, two still paying on, but never a missed payment. I have defaulted (by accident) on a private student loan, but didnt know if that would keep me from getting federal loans. I filled out the FAFSA and was informed I was eligible. very excited!

[Anonymous]

Yay! That is great news. When I worked in higher ed, the rule of thumb was always "Even in doubt - fill it out" because the earlier the better. So excited for you, that is awesome news. Have a great time at school

[jcstarkey8826]

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@Anonymous wrote:

Yay! That is great news. When I worked in higher ed, the rule of thumb was always "Even in doubt - fill it out" because the earlier the better. So excited for you, that is awesome news. Have a great time at school

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Thank You! I plan on making the most of it. Its been 5 years since I was enrolled, I forgot how anything works! haha