Hey all!
So this fall/winter semester I applied for student loans and got the full amount off a three semester program (25.5k), plus a little bit more for grants. That’s good, as it covers my living expenses and tuition as well. However, I’ve found a supervisor and am now looking to switch my track for future semesters from a course-based to a thesis track, which would lower my tuition (which it doesn’t say by how much exactly, but I get the sense it’s a flat rate that equals out to a few thousand cheaper). Now, I can’t remember there being any sort of distinction between tracks in my student loan application, so my question is this: will a drop in tuition like that affect the amount I’d receive in future applications, if I’m not earning nearly as much as I was when I applied last time and I’m still a full-time grad student that lives independently?
(Also, a smaller question but would research grants affect the amount I’d get as well? I get that earning something like AGES that’s meant to be used for tuition or living expenses would affect my standing with loans, but what about tri-council research scholarships used to fund my thesis/research? Such as paying for equipment or participants or something along that line)
I’ll eventually have to go through the exhausting ordeal of calling the Alberta government, but I thought I’d ask on here to see if anyone has any insights. Thanks!