The Federal Government has identified for student financial assistance programs certain categories of students who must be considered independent financial aid applicants. As a result, a student is considered an independent financial aid applicant if he or she meets one of the following criteria:
- was born before January 1, 1984 (2007-2008 year)
- is a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces
- is an orphan or ward of the court or was a ward of the court until age of 18
- has a child who receives more than half support from student
- has a dependent (other than child or spouse) who lives with and will receive more than half support from student through June 30, 2007
- is a married student
- is a graduate or professional student
An independent financial aid applicant is not required to submit parental information in the application process. However, if the independent applicant is married, spousal information must be reported. A student who cannot meet at least one of the above criteria is considered a dependent applicant and must provide parental information in the application process.