Getting married is a large step to take in life. However, when you are married and a student, you have a lot more to consider than the average married couple. For example, will your recent married status affect your financial aid package? What type of married student housing solution will best meet your needs as husband and wife, as well as as students? The following blog post will help you answer these questions as you continue your journey as both a University of Tennessee, Knoxville, student and a married couple.
Financial Considerations for Married Student Couples
Financial experts warn that getting married could affect a student’s financial aid packages. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will ask for both spouses’ income. The listed income is then used to determine financial need for grants, student loans, and scholarships. In addition, the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) will need to be calculated. This number is subtracted from the total cost of attendance to determine financial need. Together, these figures will determine if financial aid packages are reduced or increased when a student marries.
Another financial consideration that should be made is the number of hours that a married grad student can work while attending school and still meeting familial needs. On average it is recommended that a graduate student could work an expected 10 – 19 hours per week, without negatively affecting their work. It is important to consider work hours when it comes to choosing your married student housing.
Married Student Housing Solutions
There are several married student housing options for college students. From married college dormitories to off campus apartments, it is important to consider your needs as a student and spouse. As mentioned earlier, you will also need to consider your financial obligations. By asking the following types of questions, you can set yourself on a path towards discovering a University of Tennessee, Knoxville, married student housing solution that is best suited to meet your needs.
1. Do you want to be closer to campus or closer to your job?
2. Is public transportation needed to get to your job on time?
3. What is your financial situation?
(How much money do you have to spend on basic necessities each month, including: food, rent, transportation, school, etc.?)
4. Do you have extra money to spend on furniture?
(If you don’t have the money needed to fully furnish an apartment for you and your partner, then renting a furnished apartment could easily meet your needs
5. What type of floor plan will provide you and your partner with the space that you both need?
Remember, a studio apartment might have been fine when you were dating, but now that you are married, you might need extra room so that you don’t feel like you and your partner are “living on top of each other.”
The above questions can be used to help you narrow down your married student housing criteria. From spacious floor plans to a close proximity to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, campus, The Standard at Knoxville offers a multitude of living solutions that are ideal for a married student couple. To learn more about the numerous amenities, schedule a visit, or ask any rental questions, simply contact a member of the leasing office at your earliest convenience.