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I do not qualify for more than $4,000 student gov. loans per year. I do not qualify for grants, scholarships, work-study, or anything else because they look at my parents income.
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Are you still in high school?
Afaik, ALL students who file a FAFSA qualify for the full amount of Stafford loans up to the full COA minus other aid awarded. For freshmen this is capped at $5,500 next year and increases every year as you progress. Merit scholarships generally do not have a need component, so if you can find a school that would offer you decent merit aid that would definitely help. Many national scholarships (Walmart, Lowes, etc.) do have a need component, but not all exclude high EFC kids. Local scholarships are generally more accessible and based on your high school performance, community service, etc. - they may not be huge, but can add up quickly. Finally, you don't need a work-study award to get a job on campus. Most schools have jobs that aren't funded by work study available too and there are always busy shops and eateries who rely on the campus for business. These jobs often pay more than the work-study jobs which are minimum wage. The only benefit to work-study is that it doesn't raise your FAFSA EFC the following year, not a huge concern in your case.
There is also the annaul Teach grant, up to $4K/year with no need test, which you should sign up for (no need component) if there's even a possibility you might go into teaching. If you end up not fulfilling the service commitment, it just becomes an additional unsubsidized Stafford loan.
You might have to live at home or with a relative and attend school if there's one within commuting distance. Or work and go to school part time. There are other states besides Michigan where you might find employment a bit easier, especially in the summer (think tourism). You could even take some online courses for a year while you sign on with Americorps and earn money toward college. The bottom line is, there are ways to get an education, and build an interesting resume, on your own if you are persistent and flexible. Most kids want to follow the crowd and do it the traditional way (on Mom & Dad or Uncle Sam's dime) but those that don't/can't often end up being more mature, resourceful, and successful. Save and earn as much as you can, be creative, and keep an open mind...you can get there!
Student loan info:
FinAid | Loans | Student Loans
TEACH grant info:
Student Aid on the Web
Highlights of the 2010 Student Aid Budget Proposals:
Higher Education Highlights of the President's 2010 Budget