Dependence vs. Independence

To be considered independent for financial aid purposes you must meet one of the following federal criteria:

You will reach age 24 by December 31 of the award year
You are a graduate student
You are a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces
You are married at time of application
You are a ward of the court or both your parents are deceased
You have legal dependents (other than a spouse) who receive more than half their support from you

In some rare cases students who do not meet the criteria for independence outlined above can still be classified as independent. Generally this happens when there is an adverse family situation that is well documented by a social worker. If you feel your situation warrants special consideration re your dependency status, please see a financial aid counselor before completing the FAFSA.

Did you know

Financial Aid & Scholarship Office
One Washington Square
San José, CA 95192-0036
408-283-7500
fao@sjsu.edu
Fed. School Code: 001155

Financial Aid Map Location