Hello,

I am 22 years old. I have been accepted into my local Law Enforcement Sheriff's Academy. The Academy costs a lot of money and I only make around $200 a month (and I have medical bills that are already in the collection agencies and I am having a hard time even paying THEM!). I was told to apply for a FAFSA Stafford Loan. I was told this could solve some of my medical bills and also pay for my Academy. I am interested in filling one out and trying to get a a loan so that I can do that. But am unsure how. Can you give me any advice? And the academy starts in April - will I be able to get the loan in time?

So:
How do I fill one out,
and do you think - based off of what I have said - I will be able to get one and qualify?

Thank you,
David

The first thing you need to do is determine whether or not you school is Title IV Certified. If it is than you might qualify for a Stafford loan. Only Title IV certified schools are eligible to receive federal aid. If it is not you will have to talk to the academy's financial aid department to see which lenders they work with.

If you want to go ahead and apply for a Stafford loan you will need to file your FAFSA with the Department of Education and your school. FAFSAOnline.com can walk you through this process step by step. Good luck!
http://www.fafsaonline.com