He would have to show that he had enough money for two years to FULLY support himself.
This includes EVERYTHING…his tuition, fees (which sound like financial aid covers), books, personal expenses, housing, utilities, health insurance, car insurance, car registration costs, etc. EVERYTHING.
So, he would have to have enough financial aid plus income to prove that he paid ALL of his bills…all of them.
It clearly states that he cannot take support from anyone else in that two years.
@Mom2aphysicsgeek do I have it correct?
This student’s need based financial aid ONLY would not be sufficient proof that he is independent.
ETA…Pomona is an excellent college…but highly competitive for admissions.