When you apply for federal student aid, the answers you provide on the FAFSA will determine whether you are considered dependent on your parents or independent. If you are considered dependent, you must report on the FAFSA your parents income and assets as well as your own. If you are independent, you will report only your own income and assets (and those of your spouse if your are married). Not living with your parents or not being claimed by them on their tax form does not determine your dependency status. You are considered an independent student if at least one of the following applies to you: You are at least 24 years old You are married as of the date you apply (or separated but not divorced) You are or will be enrolled in a master’s or doctorate degree program (beyond a bachelor’s degree) You have children who receive more than half their support from you You have other dependents (other than your children or spouse) who live with you and who receive more than half their support from you and who will continue to receive more than half their support from you through the academic year Both your parents are deceased, or you are or were (until age 18) a ward/dependent of the court You are a veteran of the US Armed Forces