Dependent vs Independent Status

Your dependency status determines whose information is used to calculate your Student Aid Index (SAI)/Expected Family Contribution (EFC):

• Independent Student:
  Only your information (and your spouse's, if you are married) is used. You are considered an Independent Student if any of the following apply:

  • You were born before January 1, 2001 (as asked on the 2024–25 FAFSA).
  • You are married.
  • You have legal dependents of your own.
  • You are a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces (having served on active duty).
  • You are a ward of the court or both of your parents are deceased.

• Dependent Student:
  If none of the above conditions apply, you are considered a Dependent Student, which means you must provide your parents’ income information on your FAFSA.

For more details, visit:
FAFSA Dependency Status Information

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Overriding Dependency Status

In some cases, you can have your dependency status changed through a Dependency Override Petition if you face extenuating circumstances (for example, situations involving abuse or other adverse family circumstances). To be considered for an override:

• You must document your circumstances with support from a professional familiar with your situation.
• You need to file a Request for Professional Judgement of Unusual Circumstances (2024–2025 Dependency Override Petition).

For guidance on this process, please contact a Financial Aid Advisor at lpcfinaid@laspositascollege.edu.

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Additional Support

If you are at risk of homelessness, you may be referred to Cassondra Reinsel, Student Resources Program Manager, who can provide immediate assistance and connect you with additional support services and resources.

Make sure to review your dependency status carefully, as it affects the information you provide and your eligibility for federal financial aid.