FAFSA: Dependency vs. Independency

One of the first things that should be determined is whether you are considered a dependent or independent student.  Applicants that are considered dependent students will need to submit their parent’s information (income documents, etc.) as well as their own.

You are considered an INDEPENDENT student if you meet any of the following criteria:

• You are married
• You are an orphan or ward of the court (or were until your 18th birthday)
• You are 24 or older as of December 31 of the present year
• You are enrolled in a graduate or other post-bachelor degree program
• You are a veteran of any branch of the United States Armed Forces
• You can claim others (besides your spouse) as legal dependents

Applicants that are considered dependents should include all necessary information from their parents.  Any missing information can cause serious delays in the applications process.

Also note that as it relates to Stafford Program loan amount limitations, a dependent student may be eligible for the same amount as an independent student if their parents have applied for and were subsequently denied a PLUS loan. Click here for more information regarding the PLUS Loan Program or Stafford Loan Program.

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