I too am on my own for college. I am currently going to Penn State University and I am on my third semester standing (Sophomore).
Anyway, I do not think the FASFA application is available yet for the 2006 - 2007 school year.
The eligibility for grants and such from them all depends on your families income, living situations, many factors involved, etc....
I am paying for my college education with a combination of grants, loans, and a small scholarship, but hey, it pays for a portion of my bill!
Also expect your tuition to increase every year!
I think most loans you have to start paying back one year after you graduate.
If you can, try to get extra loan money and just leave it in the bank just in case, who knows something bad might happen.
Also see if the college you want to go to has some type of work/study program where they pay to do stuff. I help my campus's Student Activities Director, by hanging up posters and such.
The work/study might not be much, but it pays for gas and food, it also gives you something to do between classes!
If you have more questions just PM me or AIM me @ bsrtunkpa.
Here is a nice list on what you can expect to pay for college:
http://moneycentral.msn.com/content/...2.asp?GT1=6939
GO Penn State for being the most expensive public school!
