Anerkedpie

Okay here is my problem...

My dad is a prick. It's been tough growing up with him as my father. People can't ever understand how a kid with a perfect gpa, perfect test scores, and is the captain of a varsity sport (etc.) can be depressed. Well, that's where my dad came in. This is all truthful, and I can swear to that, so I'd appreciate some compassion.

Well, anyway... the first time I tried to kill myself because of him would have to have been when I was around 8-9 at my grandparents house. I'm grateful that I didn't know at the time how to properly do it, or I wouldn't be here now (obviously). I have a great girlfriend who helps me get through it, and I've periodically sought counseling. Getting my license was INCREDIBLE because I could just leave. Anyway, here is where it connects to the college search...

He makes so much money that I qualify for no financial aid at all, or come close. He says he isn't going to pay a penny for my education. Which more or less screws me out of any of the schools I think I have worked hard enough to go to. My mom has some money, although nowhere close to what I would need (they are married, it's complicated). So here is my question: how do I pay for school? I told the whole previous story to show that one viable solution is emancipation on the day I turn 18... which would drop my "family's" income to 0 quite quickly. My only hesitation is for my mom... that would nearly destroy her. I just need some advice. Anything at all would be greatly appreciated. I have no idea what to do.

sk8rmom

If you have an abusive father, you need to get that documented NOW. Through school, clergy, psychologist, etc. FAFSA has very particular requirements as to who can be considered an independent student. If you can't/don't meet these requirements, your parents income will be considered until you're 24 or married. Legal emancipation is not longer the determining factor, as it was for many years. You could leave while you're still in high school, and have the school declare you endangered (even if you're staying with friends), or, if your mom agrees to leave (or has left), apply to FAFSA only schools. It doesn't matter for FAFSA if they're still legally married or file a joint return - if they live separately, you'll only use the custodial parent's financial info. Use the link below so you understand the requirements of FAFSA.

My recommendation, if you have great stats and EC's, is to try for as close to a full-ride scholarship as you can find. Choose your college list carefully, with alot of research, and get out from under the s.o.b.'s thumb.

http://www.ifap.ed.gov/efcformulagui...aGuide0910.pdf

scottaa

You may have a good case for emancipation, which under the new rules could help substantially. But I believe you will need to get this done before you turn 18. As far as the court is concerned, emancipation is moot once you turn 18.

thumper1

Your situation requires a counselor in person...not an internet website. Please go get yourself some help.

If you are living with your parent(s) and they are providing your support, becoming an emancipated minor is not all that easy. You would have to prove that there was a circumstance that warrented this emancipation. You need some help from a grownup, either a counselor or a clergyman...or both.