The primary responsibility for meeting college costs rests with students and their parents. This is the underlying premise of all federal student-aid programs. This approach helps ensure that limited resources go to those with the greatest need.

The Higher Education Act of 1992 clearly states which students will be considered independent of parental support for educational costs. Independent students must meet at least one of the following criteria:

• 24 years of age or older;
• An orphan or ward of the court;
• A veteran of the armed forces of the United States;
• Enrolled in a graduate or professional program;
• Married; or
• Have a legal dependent other than a spouse.

Under normal circumstances, all other undergraduate students will be considered dependent for the purposes of determining financial aid.

Unusual circumstances, however, sometimes warrant reconsideration of a student’s dependency status. Such circumstances might include:

• documented cases of abuse or neglect on the part of the parent;
• long-term estrangement between parent and child.

 Unwillingness of a parent to provide support or student unwillingness to accept support are unacceptable reasons.

If you believe that your situation calls for reconsideration of your dependency status, please download and complete this form and return it to the financial aid office.