I am a single mom of 3 boys and would like to go to nursing school. Can I live off of student loans?

I also own my own small vending business but really would like to get my RN. I wouldn't mind working part time also but wasn't sure if I could get enough loans to cover my expenses so I could go full time.

I also recieve some child support to help offset my boys expenses.

Financial aid is available to help with your educational (including living) expenses. While you can use any excess to help provide for your three sons, aid is not available to pay all of their expenses. It would be smart, if you can manage it, to continue working part-time. You might also look into going to school part-time so that you have time for everything (boys, school, job, you). Complete the aid application at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov to see what aid you are eligible to receive to see what you would have available after tuition and fees are paid, and check with the aid office to see how your aid package might change if you go part-time instead of full-time.

You should be able to if you still work.

Very difficult, but student loans are intended to defray the cost of the education AND your living expenses. But that means YOUR living expenses, not the expenses associated with your kids.

You can ask for as much as you like when applying for a student loan, and you don't have to pay it back until you are finished with school (with a 6 month grace period afterwards). The biggest issue is to make sure that you stay at full-time student status or you will have to pay back the loans much sooner then planned.

I am also a single mom, I have two boys. In September I will be going back to school for my associates degree in paralegal work. The best place I went to for help was a place called "michigan works" I know you may not live in Michigan but I am sure they have the same type of office in your state. The counselors there were so helpful as far as giving me different financial options to chose from and some nework contacts. Also try making an appointment with the counselor at your chosen college. They may be able to help you figure out all your options. Good Luck too you. I know what it's like being a single mom. (especially of boys..lol)

There are a great number of shortages of nurses today,you may be able to get grants, apply for every scholarship you can.Do you have a Veteran in your family--dad or grandad? You maybe able to get some scholarships there.Talk to some large hospitals and see if they have any programs to help you, including Veterans Administration.