Alternative Loans and Student Contribution

[SarahGM]

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All of the information I've received from my school regarding Alternative/Outside Loans says that students often use this to cover the parental contribution. How about the student contribution? I do have enough to cover it for this upcoming year, but I'd like to have a little in the bank for emergencies and for travel.

Is it unheard of to take out an alternative loan to cover both parental and student contributions, or do people generally do this as well?

Thanks!