How To Be Independent

This statement is something heard frequently in the Financial Aid Office. However, independent status is not easily achieved. The criteria that decide which students are independent is provided by federal law and was amended by Higher Education Amendments of 1992.

An independent student must meet at least one of the following criteria:

• He/she was born before January 1, 1987 (for 2010-11).
• A veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces.
• A graduate or professional student
• A married student.
• A ward of the court.
• Both parents are deceased.
• Have legal dependents other than a spouse.

The criteria for independent status is detailed in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Questions regarding dependency status should be directed to the Financial Aid Office.