<p>I believe it’s <em>possible</em> to be declared independent on financial aid, but for the schools I looked at the requirements of this were pretty crazy. Like you had to be not a dependent on any tax forms, live at your own address, etc.</p>
<p>BTW if your parents screw you over and don’t help with FAFSA, there’s nothing you can do about it as far as I know.</p>