how do you know how much to request?

[Vee]

for the grad plus (cost of living) loan? should i write out a budget and base the request on that?

 

[rgerwin]

Lol. I wish it were that easy. Your school determines and certifies their COL budget for you. That's how much you can get.

 

[MavsFan08]

for the grad plus (cost of living) loan? should i write out a budget and base the request on that?

No. Write on the form:

"MAX AMOUNT"

 

[Doctor Bagel]

I always just go with my school set coa minus all my other aid. Max amount would work, too, and probably be easier.