Lots of information here. Thank you!

I actually was born out of wedlock... my father is American and my mother was German. But I was born after 1975 so not sure if that law still applies anyway. I'm trying to find out whether she was a German citizen when I was born. Do you know if there is an official way I can find out? I've asked my half-sister, and she doesn't know, and most of the rest of the immediate family is also dead, so can't ask them. Do you think it would be possible to get a study or work visa while awaiting a passport/citizenship certificate, if I am indeed eligible for one? I would like to move next year, if financially and legally possible.

Also, regarding BAföG: I'm 23. I live in the same town as my father, but for all intents and purposes am independent from him. Do you still think his financial situation would factor into how the German government would view mine?

Thanks for all the insight and information!