Hi. I just finished my MA and owe approx $30,000 in loans. I've decided to go back to school for my BEd, so I have spent the fall volunteering at schools for experience. I'm applying to programs starting next September (2005). So I have from January until August to do something. Obviously I still have bills, and I have applied for interest relief, but who knows if I will get it. I was wondering, how much can I make between January and August and still qualify for the maximum amount of OSAP? If I take the job I have been offered for that length of time I will be making about $20,000. What should I do?

Thanks!

umm, not to be difficult but if you are going to make 20K why cant you put some of that aside and not have to worry about the maximum OSAP will give you ?  if you read some of our stories you know we would strongly discourage you from getting more in debt if you can avoid it.

have you bothered to check the OSAP website and see how they calculate the maximum funding they will give you ?  you've been through this route before, having accumulated 30K in debt already so you should have an idea of what they expect you to contribute. you want to be teacher - do your own homework.

Chester,

If you are serious about your field, the outside experience you will get from volunteering will prove invaluable. Remember, the universities are popping out "cookie cutter" graduates as quickly as they can take your tuition. The best way to differentiate yourself from the pack is with the stuff you do outside the classroom. Potential

What should you do??? Pay some of your loans back!!!  You will have the means.  Why go further into debt when you can pay off your debt?

Seems like a no brainer to me.