Dependency Status Determination

Dependency status is the determination of who has the primary responsibility of contributing toward the student's educational expenses. Students are classified as either dependent or independent. Dependent students, usually under the age of 24, have access to parental support, and must include parental information on their aid application.

Students are independent if they meet one or more of the criteria below:

-24 years of age or older

-Married

-Enrolled in a graduate or professional program (beyond a bachelor's degree)

-Have legal dependents, other than a spouse

-Were orphaned or a ward of the court before their 18th birthday

-Are a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces who served on active duty.