<p>The answer to this is really quite simple. You ask the college for waiver or options to pay the deposit fee. If they give you none, and you can’t come up with it, then you cannot go to college until you save up at least enough for that. </p>
<p>Some folks I know live off of loans and financial aid while they go to college. Yes, it can be done. The problem is that those loans do come due, and the ones I’ve known who have done this are now struggling mightily with the payback. Even at best, those students who have to repay loans on their owns have a rough time of it, so if you have your back up against the wall financially now, understand that you can be in worst shape with loans on your head as well, some years later. </p>
<p>You likely will not get the proceeds of any of your financial aid until after the term begins. Every school has its policies on this, but even those who are on full rides have to come up with seed money for the school. The enrollment fee is just the tip of the iceberg. You have to buy books, there are often other costs, transportation and if you are expecting to live off some of those loan and aid proceeds, be aware that they may not come as late as the drop date for your courses. Colleges do this because people borrow money get aid, pocket the excess and then drop out, leaving the school with a mess. This way, the student owes it all, as if you completed the courses.</p>