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.

• Applying/Reapplying for 2009-2010 Aid
• The 7 Steps to Financial Aid
• Determining Financial Aid Eligibility
• Cost of Attendance
• 2009 - 2010 Registration Fees
• Dependence vs. Independence
• Applying for Special Circumstances
• Summer Financial Aid
• Frequently Asked Questions
• back

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

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San José State University - Home of the Spartans
One Washington Square - San José, California USA, 95192 - 408.924.1000