Whether you're listed as a dependent or independent student on the FAFSA affects how your school calculates your financial aid package.
Note: All graduate level students are considered independent students for FAFSA purposes.
| Areas Which Differ | FAFSA Dependent Student | FAFSA Independent Student |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Information Provided |
Your financials, as well as your parent(s)’ will be considered in determining your eligibility for financial aid. |
You will only include financial information for yourself and your spouse (if you’re married). |
| Potential FAFSA Contributors |
|
|
| Direct Stafford Loan Eligibility | Dependent students have lower annual and aggregate borrowing limits in the Direct Stafford Loan program. However, your parent(s) will have the ability to apply for a Direct PLUS loan* to help you cover your college costs. | You are eligible for independent undergraduate loan limits in the Direct Stafford Loan program. |
| Direct PLUS Loan Eligibility | Your parent can apply for a Direct PLUS Loan to help you cover your college costs. | Your parents will not be eligible to borrow a Direct PLUS Loan to help you cover your college costs. You will not be eligible to apply for a Direct PLUS Loan as an undergraduate student. |
*If your parent is denied a Parent PLUS loan, you will become eligible for the independent undergraduate loan limits in the Direct Stafford Loan program.
How do you fill out the FAFSA without parents?
Don’t panic if you are unable to provide the required parental information. The FAFSA will ask you questions to see if you’re eligible for a dependency override. If you are not eligible for a dependency override, you may be eligible for a professional judgement decision. If you are able to demonstrate that your parent will not support you in any way, you will still be able to submit your FAFSA. Your dependency status will remain dependent, and you will only be eligible for unsubsidized Direct Loans. You will not be eligible for any other form of federal financial aid.