I'm applying to masters in public administration programs full/time in-state. Even with in-state tuition, once you factor in cost of living my degree will cost approximately $40,000 over two years.

Now, according to FAFSA, I make too much money to qualify for subsidized loans (I make a fair amount, but in NYC my salary is a pittance.) I've worked hard and saved most of my money for a few years so I have a lot of savings so schools won't offer me any money. The unsubsidized Stafford is a whopping 6.8% that kicks in the day I start school. So it looks like my best bet is to just pay out of pocket until I'm flat broke for a degree that interests me, that will allow me to contribute more to my community than my current job but doesn't pay particularly well.

If I had the same job in a different state my salary would have been lower and I would have qualified. if i had just been a ski bum this past year I would have qualified. I feel like I'm being punished for working hard and saving and it's making me very bitter.