Independent Status Documentation Required

We can complete the processing of your financial aid once you submit documentation confirming your independent status under federal (FAFSA) guidelines.

You may be considered independent if you meet one of the following criteria:

  • You are 24 years of age or older
  • You are married
  • You are serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces
  • You financially support dependent child(ren)
  • You are an orphan (both parents deceased)
  • You were a ward of the court
  • You were determined by a court to be an emancipated minor

For full definitions, see the FAFSA dependency guidelines


Acceptable documentation may include:

  • Birth certificate (copies accepted)
  • DD214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty)
  • Court documentation (ward of the court or emancipated minor status)
  • Other official documents supporting your qualifying status

Financial aid eligibility cannot be finalized until this documentation is received and reviewed.