Dependency Status

When you apply for federal student aid, your answers to the questions in Step 3 of the FAFSA (or in Step 2 of the online FAFSA, FAFSA on the Web) will determine whether you’re considered dependent on your parents or independent. If you’re considered dependent, you must report on the FAFSA your parents’ income and assets as well as your own. If you’re independent, you’ll report only your own income and assets (and those of your spouse, if you’re married). Not living with your parents or not being claimed by them on their tax form does not determine your dependency status.

NOT SURE IF YOU ARE A DEPENDENT OR AN INDEPENDENT STUDENT?

Try The Six Question Dependency Calculator

After you determine your dependency status; please read below:

If results show you are a/an:

• Dependent student, then at least one parent must sign your FAFSA application. You and your parents can sign the FAFSA electronically by use of a PIN.
• Independent student, you need to apply for a PIN and start your FAFSA application using you and your spouse's income information.