Dependent vs. Independent

The federal definition of an independent student is one who can answer yes to any of the following questions for 2008-2009:

1. Were you born before January 1, 1985?
2. Are you a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces?
3. Will you be enrolled in a graduate or professional program (beyond a bachelor's degree) in 2008-2009?
4. Are you married?
5. Are you an orphan or a ward of the court, or were you a ward of the court until age 18?
6. Do you have legal dependents (other than a spouse)?

Applicants who answer "no" to all of these questions are dependent students and are required to report parental information on the application.

However, in unusual circumstances, a student who does not meet any of these criteria may still be considered independent if a compelling case can be made to override the dependent status. A Request for Dependency Review must be completed and submitted.

Earned income at any level does not constitute an unusual circumstance and does not support an independent status. Also, parental unwillingness to provide information does not support an independent status.