For federal student financial aid purposes, you are considered dependent if you can answer No to all of the following questions:

• Were you born before January 1, 1984?
• At the beginning of the school year 2007-2008, will you be working on a master's or doctorate program (such as an MA, MBA, MD, JD, Ph.D., Ed.D., 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 (a) both of your parents deceased, or (b) 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?

If you are identified as a dependent student, your parents must answer the parental questions on the FAFSA.

Table of Contents | Frequently Asked Questions | Customer Service