FAQ - My parents don't help pay for my college education. Am I considered independent?

Question
My parents don't help pay for my college education. Am I considered independent?
Answer

Your answers to questions on the FAFSA determine your dependency status for financial aid purposes. Being financially independent from your parents does not make you independent for financial aid purposes. 

If you do not meet the criteria to be considered independent but can document special circumstances about your independence, you should contact the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid.

For more information about a student’s dependency status visit studentaid.gov.