Dude 12 grand is no reason to file bankruptcy. I owe more than that. Call your creditors and tell them your situation with school. There is something they can do. Like people said, they would rather see some money rather than nothing at all, which is what they'll get if you file. It will eff your credit for a long time man. Just pay them what you can. Work a second job to make a little money. Better to make the sacrifices now than down the road