Dependency status

You are considered an independent student if you meet one of the following criteria:

Are 24 years old
Are working on a master's or doctorate program at the beginning of the academic year for which aid is being requested
Are married when you complete the FAFSA
Have children who receive more than half of their support from you
Have legal dependents (other than a spouse or children) who live with you and receive more than half of their support from you (and will continue to do so during the academic year)
Both of your parents are deceased, or you are a ward/dependent of the court (or were a ward/dependent of the court until age 18)
Are currently serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces for other than training purposes
Are a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces

If you do not meet at least one of the above independent student criteria, you are considered dependent and must include parent information on the FAFSA.

Special/extenuating circumstances

If you do not meet any of the above independent student criterion, but have extenuating circumstances, contact the financial aid office at your college to discuss your situation.

Effective for the 2009-10 academic year

Beginning with the 2009-10 academic year on July 1, 2009, the definition of an independent student will be revised to include the following:

Students in foster care
Emancipated minors
Students in legal guardianship (as determined b the relevant state court)
Students who are verified by a specified individual as an unaccompanied youth who is a homeless child/youth
Students who are verified by a specified individual as an unaccompanied youth who is at risk of homelessness and is self supporting