The detemination of dependent/independent for financial aid students is part of the concept of who should pay for the student's education (click on the Eligibility link on the left for more information). Dependency status for financial aid purposes is determined by the seven questions in Step 3 of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). These have to do with:
Age (over 24)
Being in a graduate program--beyond the bachelor's degree
Being married
Having children that you support at least 51%
Having other dependents that you support at least 51%
Being an orphan or ward of the court until age 18
Being a veteran
Students who answer all of these questions 'no,' are dependent students and are required to provide their parents' information on the FAFSA--even if they are out on their own and are self-supporting.
A student, however, can be made independent by professional judgment due to an adverse home situation. An adverse home situation must be documented by a third party, such as a counselor, minister, or family member who is aware of the situation. A parent's refusal to pay for the student's college expenses is not considered to be an adverse home situation.
If you feel that your are from an adverse home situation and cannot get your parents' information for the FAFSA, fill out the Petition for Change to Independent Status and make an appointment to see a counselor in the Financial Aid Office at LAC or PCC.
Special Note about the Fee Waiver
The independent criteria for the Board of Governors Fee Waiver are different than for the FAFSA. It is quite possible for a student to be independent for the Fee Waiver and be dependent for federal financial aid.
