Frequently Asked Questions
Can I file my FAFSA as an independent student?
The awarding of federal student financial aid is based on the assumption that primary responsibility for meeting college expenses rests with the student and the student’s parents. The family’s ability to pay for college is based on the objective national need analysis embodied in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Eligibility for aid is determined after student and parent resources are considered.
Students who can answer “yes” to any of the questions below are independent for federal aid for the 2007 - 2008 year. Students who cannot answer “yes” are considered dependent, and information on the income and assets of the parents must be included on the FAFSA.
Were you born before January 1, 1984? At the beginning of the 2007-2008 academic year will you be enrolled in a masters or doctorate program? Are you married? Do you have children who receive more than half their support from you? Do you have dependents (other than your children or spouse) who live with you and receive more than half their support from you, now and through June 30, 2008? Are you a ward of court (or were until age 18) or are your parents deceased? Are you currently serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces for purposes other than training? Are you a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces? In unusual cases, the Office of Financial Aid can determine that a student who doesn’t meet any of the independence criteria should still be treated as an independent student. Please note that none of the conditions listed below, singly or in combination, qualify as unusual circumstances meriting a dependency override:
- Parents refuse to contribute to the student’s education
- Parents are unwilling to provide information on the FAFSA or for verification
- Parents do not claim the student for income tax purposes
- Student demonstrates total self-sufficiency
Unusual circumstances do include an abusive family environment or abandonment by parents. Generally the documentation of unusual circumstances must include signed statements from third party sources that have first hand knowledge of your situation, such as a member of the clergy, social worker, or guidance counselor.
Please contact Student Financial Services for more information.
