Dependency Status
Section 480(d) of the Higher Education Act states that a student may be considered independent if the financial aid administrator makes a documented determination of independence by reason of unusual circumstances. In carrying out that provision, to the extent possible, this institution will treat students in similar situations consistently, while recognizing that each case must be determines individually. In exercising professional judgment, the institution will adhere to the following policies and procedures.

Requests for Review

• The institution will consider written documented requests from students to have their dependency status changed from dependent to independent.
• We recommend requests for an override be submitted before completing the FAFSA. However, requests can be received after the FAFSA has been filed.
• Requests will be reviewed by the Director of Financial Aid.
• The student will be notified by the Director of Financial Aid once all requested documentation has been received and reviewed. The decision of the Financial Aid Administrator is final, and cannot be appealed to the Department of Education.

Circumstances Meriting Review
The following factors will be considered in determining whether the case merits review:

• Student living outside parent's home since pre-puberty (approx. age 12 - 15).
• Social Service, police, or legal intervention.
• PLEASE NOTE: A parent's unwillingness or perceived inability to provide for a dependent student's educational expenses is NOT a circumstance meriting review.
• Any other relevant unusual circumstances not listed above, with the discretion of the Financial Aid Administrator.

Documentation Required

1. A letter from you explaining in detail why you feel that you should be considered an independent student.
2. A letter from a third party, i.e. clergy, counselor, attorney, why s/he believes you should be considered independent.
3. A copy of your parent's most recent federal income tax return (if possible).
4. A copy of your most recent federal income tax return (mandatory).
5. A letter from your parents stating why they no longer wish to pay for your education (mandatory).
6. Your list of addresses for the past 12 months, current and future residences.
7. Total personal resources for the past tax year. This would include wages, tips, personal loans, room and board in exchange for services, etc.