How can someone return to college after dropping out for mental health reasons?
My friend had to leave college due to mental health challenges, particularly because she wasn’t receiving adequate treatment from her clinic (which has since closed). Now, she owes money to the school and can’t re-enroll until it’s settled. What options does she have to continue her education? Should she consider taking out a loan to cover her debt and then manage the loan while attending classes? Are there possibilities of transferring to a different school or obtaining student loan forgiveness? Any advice would be appreciated!
It’s great that you’re looking to help your friend navigate this tough situation. Here are several steps and options she can consider to get back into college:
Contact the School’s Financial Aid Office: First, she should reach out to her school’s financial aid office to discuss her situation. They can provide specific guidance on her outstanding balance and any options for payment plans or financial assistance.
Appeal for Financial Aid: If her mental health challenges impacted her academic performance, she might be eligible to appeal for financial aid through a “satisfactory academic progress” review. Schools often have provisions for students who faced extenuating circumstances.
Look into Student Loans: If repaying the outstanding balance is necessary to return, she might consider taking out a loan. However, she should carefully assess the terms and make sure it’s a manageable decision for her finances going forward.
Consider Different Institutions: If returning to the previous college isn’t feasible due to financial constraints, she can explore transferring to a different school. However, she will need to verify if she can still apply for financial aid at a new institution, especially if she still has debts with the current school.
Check for Loan Forgiveness Options: There are some programs aimed at student loan forgiveness, especially for borrowers who are facing financial hardship or have disabilities. She should research forgiveness programs that could apply to her situation and see if she qualifies.
Seek Support and Counseling: Since her mental health has been a significant factor in her experience, it’s crucial for her to continue seeking support (e.g., therapy or counseling) as she navigates this process. Many schools offer mental health resources that can be beneficial.
Explore Scholarships and Grants: Encourage her to look for scholarships or grants that can help ease her financial burden. Some organizations specifically help students who have faced health challenges.
Stay Organized and Proactive: Keeping track of deadlines, maintaining communication with financial aid offices, and staying organized will help her manage the process more smoothly.
Ultimately, it’s important for her to take her time and consider her mental health and well-being while navigating her return to education. Support from friends, family, and professionals can make a significant difference in this process.