Independent Student Status
In most cases, to determine financial aid eligibility, we consider both your financial resources and those of your parents or guardians. However, if you are an independent student we consider only your financial resources and those of your spouse, if you have one.
How do I know if I am an independent student?
To qualify as an independent student, you must meet at least one of the following conditions:
- You were born before January 1, 1984
- During the school year 2007-2008 you will work on a master’s or doctorate program (M.A., M.B.A., M.D., J.D., Ph.D., Ed.D., graduate certificate, etc.)
- As of today, you are married. (You are independent if you are separated but not divorced). “As of today” refers to the day that you complete your FAFSA form online
- You have children who receive more than half their support from you
- You have dependents other than your children or spouse who live with you, receive more than half of their support from you, and will continue to do so through June 30, 2008
- Both of your parents are deceased, or you are or were (until age 18) a ward/dependent of the court
- You are a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces
- You are currently serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces for purposes other than training
We will review all financial aid requests individually, and may require documentation to verify your independent status. Please note that if you are classified as an independent student, this will not necessarily make you more or less qualified for financial aid.
For more information on Independent Status, download the Are You Independent? information sheet below.
Are You Independent? (PDF, 93K)
