swimcatsmom

I do not think it is possible or a good idea to attempt to apply for a visa if your Status is permanent resident. You could get yourself into a big mess. Also you have to be a permanent resident to qualify for any federal aid. Do not start messing around with your resident status in this way or you may end up with worse problems than financial aid.

You have a computer so you have access to email. Email your school with your problem and ask their advice. Do it as soon as possible - tomorrow. Or even now. Perhaps if you explain the situation it may even be possible to get some sort of waiver on the deposit.

If there is no way around the unexpired green card then they will tell you that and you will have to figure out what to do next. If you live somewhere near an INS office perhaps it would be worth taking the time to go and talk to them. Getting a new green card takes several months I believe but I think they can give you temporary documentation that would probably satisfy the school. I don't know if you would be able to do this without paying the fees (which i agree are very high).

The first thing is to contact the school and explain the situation. Do that now. Good luck.