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Most students entering a postsecondary school straight from high school are considered financially dependent on their parents. This means their parents must provide information on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). In unusual circumstances, a student who would normally be considered dependent can be considered independent.
The Financial Aid Administrator (FAA) at a school can make a special determination of independence and override the student’s dependency status on the FAFSA. This is called Professional Judgment. Students who believe that they have compelling and unique reasons to be considered independent should contact the financial aid office at the school they are planning to attend.
Students should be aware that the school is not required to perform dependency overrides, and if the FAA determines that an override is not appropriate, the decision cannot be appealed to the U.S. Department of Education.
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