Dependency Status

Students often wonder whether or not they would be considered a Dependent Student or an Independent Student for Financial Aid pursposes. As a general rule of thumb, if you answer "yes" to any of the below questions, you could be considered an Independent Student.

1. Are you older than 24 years of age?
2. Will you be working on a graduate school degree, such as a master's or doctorate, in the upcoming academic year?
3. Are you currently serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces for other than training purposes?
4. Are you a veteran of the United States Armed Forces?
5. Are you married as of the date you will be submitting the FAFSA?
6. Do you have children or other dependents who receive more than half of their support from you?
7. Are you an orphan or ward of the court or were you a ward of the court prior to turning 18 years of age?