If you cannot provide parent information on your FAFSA and do not meet the standard requirements for independent status, you may qualify for a Dependency Override under certain unusual circumstances.
When You May Qualify
Examples of unusual circumstances include:
- Your parents are incarcerated.
- You have left home due to an abusive family environment.
- You do not know where your parents are and cannot contact them (and you have not been adopted).
Situations That Do Not Qualify
The following reasons, alone or combined, are not grounds for a Dependency Override:
- Parent refuses to contribute to your education.
- Parent is unwilling to provide documentation for FAFSA or verification.
- Parent does not claim you on their tax return.
- You demonstrate total self-support.
How to Request a Dependency Status Review
To request to be considered as independent, documentation must be submitted, which includes three (3) or more letters and/or official documents that prove the independence of a student. In addition, they must provide a typewritten appeal letter describing their unusual family situation and why they should be considered an independent student.
These requests are reviewed and decided upon within 10 business days of receiving all required documents (making the file complete).
Additional information regarding required documentation can be found in the Dependency Override Request Form which may be picked up in the Financial Aid Office.
(Financial Aid > Applying for Aid)