First I’d just like to point out one thing.  You should never let disadvantages keep you down, financial or otherwise.  You can accomplish anything you want to in life.  Read that last sentence again.

Money should not play a deciding factor in whether you go to college or not.  The U.S. understands this and has instituted many programs to help “would be” college students.  If this is your goal than reach out, squeeze it by the balls, and hold on!  Anything is possible.  People who achieve goals on a consistent basis are usually the ones who hold on to the vision while the majority give up, let go, and fail.  Anyway, back to how to get a student loan with back credit..

I’m assuming you either already have (or plan to) your G.E.D or High School Diploma.  I’m also assuming you know which college you want to attend.  The first thing you need to do is schedule an appointment with someone in either the financial aid department or the admissions office.  It is wise to call ahead of time to see if an appointment is required.  Some colleges will limit your visit to 10-15 minutes without an appointment, while others don’t take walk-ins at all.

During the meeting you will have a chance to ask questions.  The person you speak with should inform you of the kinds of financial aid that are available to students. Either he will refer you to the financial aid department or he will handle it himself.  You will be instructed to fill out several forms (FAFSA) being one of the most important ones.  During that meeting they will evaluate your specific financial needs and recommend a plan of action.  Make sure you bring either a notebook or a pen/paper with you – as there will be many important things you need to do/remember.

Most students usually receive financial aid in the form of grants.  Grants are money given to you by a specific entity (such as the federal government or non profit funds held by organizations) that you DO NOT have to pay back.  Grants usually only cover a small portion of your tuition, but for low costing community colleges they may cover everything. 

During your meeting your counselor will probably suggest applying for one of the federal loan programs (such as a Stafford loan).  Government aid is well…backed by the government.  It’s because of this that you can get a student loan with bad credit.  You can have the worst credit on the planet and you can still get a loan.  Credit does not play a factor, on the contrary financial need does play one.

So, go meet with someone in your college now, and don’t delay! ;o)

Now, can you get a student loan with bad credit? Now is the time to try and find the answer out for yourself, go apply for some government backed loans!

Related: How To Get Your Free Credit Report Online
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There are two main types of financial aid awarded; merit based and need based.  Merit based aid is usually awarded solely based on a student’s academic or athletic performance and is awarded by the school’s admission board.  Need based aid, on the other hand, is awarded based on a student’s financial need.  Need based aid is determined by the college’s financial aid office as per the EFC (Expected Family Contribution) of the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

As someone who is currently enrolled in college I can tell you how frustrating the whole process can sometimes be.  The majority of students in my college applied for need based financial aid.  While most of the students I’ve talked to received some form of aid, there were a handful of students that received a considerable amount more.  It’s not always fair that a student from family A receives more than a student from family B, while B is in greater need.  This happens all of the time.  I’m not saying this to discourage you, but to warn you that it does happen in some cases.  It’s frustrating how this works.  It’s crucial that you take the time to learn how both need based and merit based aid works. Hopefully this article will give you some insight into how to get college financial aid.

Getting admitted to your college is the first part (obviously).  Once you have been admitted you will have greater control over the financial aid you receive.  One of the most important things you need to do is fill out the required financial aid applications, as early as possible.  If you do not fill out every required form by the deadline something could go wrong, and you could be in jeopardy of losing your aid. Also, most of the students I’ve spoken with who had received a large portion of aid filled out the forms early

After you fill out and send it the forms wait to receive your financial aid letter.  If the amount is not what you expected than consider stopping by the financial aid department. They will be able to explain how to get college financial aid & how to fill out the fafsa forms. 

Explain your financial situation to them, and if you have any form of evidence (check stubs, tax returns, child support) bring it with you. This won’t work it every case but if you do it with persistence I’m sure you can get somewhere.  Of course every college is different.  If you cannot pay for college once admitted make sure you tell them this.  If you absolutely

Just in case you were not aware, you can also apply for private grants and scholarships.  I personally have not been able to find anything for myself, if you are either a minority or have a disability you are in a much better position to find a private grant/loan.

One other thing I want to say.  Just because were in a financial crisis right now, does not mean you won’t get aid.  From my understanding the Obama administration has good plans for the future of college loans an college aid. Please browse the other articles on how to get college financial aid – if you need more information

Related Article: Can you get a student loan with bad credit?