If you can answer No to all of the following questions, you are considered a dependent student on the FAFSA:

• 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, PhD, 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, 2009?
• 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 considered a dependent student, your parents must answer the parental questions on the FAFSA.

If you have special circumstances that prevent you from providing the parental data you must contact your financial aid office for assistance with completing your FAFSA.

If you can answer Yes to any of the questions above, you are considered an independent student on the FAFSA.

Note: Health profession students may be required to provide parental information regardless of their dependency status.

Table of Contents | Frequently Asked Questions | Customer Service