School and Child Support

[TexanByBirth]

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I have a somewhat unique situation that I can't really find a lot of information on, anywhere. I pay child support for my 2 kids and I'm not about to stop supporting them. I'm somewhat certain I can make it through undergrad/prereqs with no real issues(pertaining to child support) because of veteran benefits and such. Does anyone know if it is allowable to take federal loans along with veteran benefits? I've heard rumors that it is possible.

If I could take a couple loans, coupled with the va benefits, I should be able to not work for at least a year and then find a part time job after the first year. So basically I would prefer not to work so I could bear down on classes because I've got to raise my measly 3.2 cGPA at least a little, and I want to be able to still support the kiddos.

Anyone have any info or have been through a similar situation?

 

[Prncssbuttercup]

I don't know the answer, but I wish you the best and commend your efforts!

 

[theSmurfette]

Yes you can take both GI Bill and student loans. My husband did several times when he was doing undergrad back in 06/07. It's all about cost of attendance. He was using MGIB though and not the new 9/11 benefits.

 

[TexanByBirth]

I'm using the new 9/11 benefits. I ran out of the MGIB a while back. I've got 1 year at 80% under Chapter 33, so still pretty decent money.

On another note, I found out this evening that both the GI Bill and Hazelwood (Texas vets) can be used at the same time to cover tuition; however, when using the Hazelwood exemption, any loans that you get will be reduced. Just a note for anyone that may need the two like myself.

So now I just need to decide which is better for my situation: GI Bill/Hazelwood/Loan or GI Bill/Loan. I'll visit the finance office tomorrow and post my findings.