AITAH for not lending my family money when my semester fees are due soon?

I’m a college student and I pretty much support myself. I work part time and take on small freelancing gigs, so my income isn’t very steady. Because of that, I start saving months ahead for each semester’s fees. If I miss the deadline, I get hit with late fees or a hold on my classes.

Recently, a family member asked me for a loan because their car broke down and they need it for work. The amount they asked for is basically the same money I’ve been saving for my tuition, which is due next month. They said they’d pay me back soon, but they couldn’t give me a clear timeline.

I thought about it for a day and then told them I couldn’t help because I can’t risk not being able to pay my fees. They weren’t happy and said family should always help family, and now things feel a little awkward. I know they’re stressed, but I also worked extra hours and took on more gigs just to save this money.

Now I’m stuck feeling guilty and wondering if I should’ve handled it differently.

AITAH?