I have a friend with a credit score in the 200s... Lol... And she is in nursing school doing great and have been offered Job positions for after she graduates... I live in Louisiana and here I have never heard of any kind of credit checks but I'm not sure how it works in California... You can call a school that you are interested in and ask them anonymously and they should be able to tell you all you need to know... Like you I am young and was in something similar at a young age but now I'm married to a wonderful man who adores my daughter and I.... You can do it!... Stay strong and stay focused!... You and your daughter are worth so much and it's awesome that you are working to ensure both of your futures... GOOD LUCK!