Help with Returning to School for a Bachelor’s in Business – Low Income & Financial Aid Options?

Looking for Guidance on Returning to School for a Bachelor’s in Business – Low-Income & Financial Aid Options?

Hi Reddit,

I’m seeking some advice as I plan to return to school. I currently reside in LA and aim to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Management. I already hold an Associate of Science in this area from a community college but have taken a two-year break from my studies.

I would love to attend a CSU or UCLA, but my primary concern is managing finances and avoiding student debt. As someone with a low income, I’ve heard that there are opportunities for students like me to attend college without tuition costs through financial aid and various programs, but I’m not sure where to begin.

Could anyone provide insight on:
1. Which colleges offer the most support for low-income students?
2. What specific programs (grants, scholarships, or fee waivers) should I look into?
3. Will my two-year gap impact my eligibility for financial aid or admission?

I would greatly appreciate any advice, personal experiences, or resources you can share! Thank you in advance for your assistance.

One Reply to “Help with Returning to School for a Bachelor’s in Business – Low Income & Financial Aid Options?”

  1. Hi there!

    It’s great to hear that you’re looking to return to school and finish your degree in Business Administration. Here are some thoughts and resources that might help you navigate your situation:

    1. Schools with Strong Financial Aid: Many California State Universities (CSUs) and UCLA offer robust financial aid packages, especially for low-income students. Schools that are known for their support include:
    2. UCLA: They provide excellent financial aid resources and a comprehensive financial aid office.

    3. CSU Long Beach, CSU Fullerton, and CSU Northridge: These schools have programs designed to help low-income students, and they often have higher acceptance rates for transfer students coming from community colleges.

    4. Programs for Financial Aid:

    5. FAFSA: Start by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible. This will determine your eligibility for federal grants, work-study, and loans.
    6. Cal Grants: Since you are a California resident, look into Cal Grants, which offer financial assistance to low-income students. If you meet the eligibility requirements, this could cover tuition fees at public universities.
    7. State University Grant (SUG): Available for eligible CSU students and can help with tuition costs.
    8. Scholarships: Look for scholarships aimed at low-income students. Websites like Scholarship Mentor, Fastweb, and the College Board can help you identify opportunities. Also, check with the financial aid office at the schools you’re considering for school-specific scholarships.

    9. Community-based organizations: Organizations like United Way or local nonprofits often provide scholarships or financial resources.

    10. Impact of Your Gap: Generally, a two-year gap shouldn’t affect your eligibility for financial aid or admission—especially since you have prior college experience. It’s more important to focus on your GPA, any applicable coursework, letters of recommendation, and personal statements. Some programs may request information on what you’ve been doing during your gap, so be prepared to discuss it positively.

    Additional Tips:
    – Community College Benefits: Since you have an associate degree, schools may offer benefits like TAG (Transfer Admission Guarantee) programs, which you might want to explore.
    – California Promise: This program provides financial support for eligible students at CSU and might cover your tuition for your last two years.
    – Advising: Make an appointment with the financial aid office at the schools you’re interested in. They can provide personalized assistance based on your situation.

    Best of luck on your journey back to school! Don’t hesitate to ask if you have more questions, and keep us posted on your progress!

    Reply

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