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Many college and university students rely on scholarships and student loans to help them pay for their education. If you fall into this category and are arrested or convicted for a drug crime, you may worry that it will affect your student aid. A conviction for a drug crime may affect your student aid, but it will depend on the type of loan or scholarship you are applying for. Below, our Monroe drug crime lawyer explains further.
How a Drug Conviction will Affect Federal Student Aid
Historically, a conviction for a drug crime could have prevented you from receiving federal student aid. Fortunately, that is no longer the case. You can still apply for and receive federal student aid after a conviction for a drug crime. However, you must include information about the conviction on your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
If you are currently in prison or jail due to the drug crime conviction, you are considered ineligible for federal student aid. Still, you can apply while you are incarcerated to make sure your application is processed by the time you are released. If you are not incarcerated but are currently on parole or probation, you are likely still eligible to receive federal student aid.
How a Drug Conviction will Affect Scholarships and Other Loans
Organizations that offer scholarships and other financial institutions that offer student loans may do so at their own discretion. Some of these organizations provide student aid to people who have been convicted of a drug crime, while others do not. Regardless of the institution you are applying to, it is critical that you remain honest about your criminal history. If you are dishonest and the organization learns the truth, which they typically do, they will likely revoke any student aid you were given.
Other Potential Consequences of a Drug Conviction
While you will still likely be eligible for student aid after a conviction for a drug crime, there may be other consequences you will face. For example, certain colleges and universities expel students after a conviction of any crime. You may also not be able to find housing, which could pose a problem if you attend school in a location that is not close to home. A conviction of any kind will also result in a permanent criminal record, which could make it difficult to find employment. That could make things even more difficult, particularly if you already require financial aid to attend school.
Our Drug Crime Lawyer in Monroe Can Help You Avoid a Conviction
As a student, you have the rest of your life in front of you. Unfortunately, a conviction for a drug crime will vastly limit your freedom and opportunities. At Whiddon Criminal Defense, our Monroe drug crime lawyer can provide the strong defense you need so you can avoid the negative consequences a conviction will bring. Call us now at 318-594-3592 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help.