How can I file as an Independent student instead of a Dependent student?
Dependency status is determined by completing the FAFSA. The laws governing the Federal Student Aid programs are based on the premise that the family is the first source of the student’s support, and the law provides several criteria that decide if the student is considered independent of his/her parents for aid eligibility. In particular, a student reaching the age of 18 or 21 or living apart from parents does not affect the dependency status. If the student is considered a dependent of his parents, information on the income and assets of the parents must be included on the FAFSA. The questions to determine dependency are in step three of the FAFSA.
Related Questions
- What is the difference between a "Dependent" student and an "Independent" student, and how does that classification impact the application process?
- My parents will not be claiming me as a dependent on their tax returns. Can I file my financial aid applications as an independent student?
- How can I file as an Independent student instead of a Dependent student?
