<p>Actually, no, a student is not automatically independent just because he has a bachelors degree. He is automatically independent if he is in a GRAD program. It sounds like MM’s son will be either in a regular undergrad program or a post bach program. He will be independent only if he was born before January 1, 1985 or is in a grad program. </p>
<p>Since he has another degree, he will only be eligible for loans at the undergrad level - no Pell, SEOG, or work study. If he is a post bach, his loan limits depend on his program, and he will have to do an Eligible Program Exception form and a Plan of Work in order to be evaluated for loans. In addition, he will not be able to receive a PLUS loan as an undergrad or post bach.</p>