What is the difference between a dependent and independent undergraduate student?
Dependent students must report their parents’ income and assets on the FAFSA as well as their own. If the student is considered a dependent student, that student’s parents are expected to contribute toward the cost of education. Federal student aid programs are based on the concept that a dependent student’s parents have the primary responsibility of paying for education. As of 2006, your student is an independent student IF at least one of the following applies to you: • Your student was born before January 1, 1988. (FORMULA: CURRENT YEAR MINUS 18 YEARS) • Your student is or will be enrolled in a master’s or doctoral degree program (beyond a bachelor’s degree) at the beginning of the 2007-08 academic year. • Your student is married on the day you apply (even if they are separated but not divorced) • Your student has children who receive more than half their support from your student • Your student has dependents (other than their children or spouse) who live with them and who receive
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- What is the difference between a dependent and independent undergraduate student?