I am so confused about student loans and have no idea what the criteria is.

By the end of 2009 I will have saved enough money for Sept 2010 first semester tuition and books. Also I plan to work the first 3Q of 2010 (plan to quit in Sept) but that money would go towards my summer "school and work stress relief trip" and anything left over would be Jan 2011 semester fees. So is the criteria based on your yearly earnings or how much money you have at that moment you apply? I'm also getting a scholarship end of 2009 for $1000. As well, I live at home, I don't have a car, I don't have any debt, I don't have a savings account only checking and I think my credit is ok. I don't believe I would need massive amounts like only $1000.