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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 a dependency override, you must first ensure that you have a completed FAFSA on file for the current aid year. You will be required to submit a completed Dependency Override Form, only available in the Financial Aid Office on campus. Also, please be sure to provide three (3) notarized letters from professional individuals (Guidance Counselor, Clergy, etc.) that are aware of the situation and can explain why independence should be considered.
Once all completed and required items are received by the Financial Aid Office, please allow up to 1-3 business days for a response to be sent to you via email.
(Financial Aid > Applying for Aid)