Dependency

Dependent or Independent Student

These questions from the FAFSA are used by the federal processor to determine, according to law, whether you are a dependent or an independent student for purposes of calculating an Expected Family Contribution (EFC).

If you answer NO to all of these questions, you are a dependent student, even if you do not live with your parents. A dependent student provides information about his or her parents on the FAFSA.

If you answer YES to any of these questions, you are an independent student, and can then skip the FAFSA questions about parental income and information.

• Were you born before January 1, 1985?
• At the beginning of the 2008-2009 school year, will you be working on a master's or doctorate program (such as an MA, MBA, MD, JD, Ph.D., EdD, or graduate certificate, etc.)?
• As of today, are you married?
• Do you have children who receive more than half of their support from you?
• Do you have dependents (other than your children or spouse) who live with you and who receive more than half of their support from you, now and through June 30, 2008?
• Are both of your parents deceased or are you (or were you until age 18) a ward/dependent of the court?
• Are you currently serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces for purposes other than training?
• Are you a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces?