Roommate Stole Tuition Money and is Fleeing Country

Hello. My roommate has neglected to pay back over $915 in owed rent and utilities, and the number continues to climb. I am risking losing my funds for continuing education. I would love to serve him in small claims court, but the filing fee is $200, and he is leaving the country at the end of the month indefinitely, so I have been advised not to file so I don’t lose more money. He is also making us responsible for his portion of the rent since he has not sorted anything out with the landlord, we have until March to pay for. I don’t want to lose my loan or my spot in my master’s program, and an eviction on record would put my remaining roommate and me at risk of losing the housing we have lined up at the end of this lease. I work and have picked up more shifts, but have been unable to make up the difference in expenses. I’m at a loss of what else to do. I am scared and hurt by being forced into this situation. Anything is really appreciated, thank you :(