<p>I am currently a community college student who lives alone. I use to live in a family of four my whole life. However, last year at age 20 I moved into an apartment building. My income is easily less than 20,000 a year. I have had my own residence, bills, and income for one year. So when I fill out the FASFA will my parents income still be taken into consideration? I have not had my parents monetary support for over a year, and they have no intention of contributing to my college education. I am pretty ignorant on the topic of financial aid, but I do know that I need to some how get a free need based scholarship to a school. I completed 63 credits, and maintained a 3.8 GPA at community college as a liberal arts major. Could someone please give me the skinny on my situation? Am I likely to get a full need based scholarship since my income is low and I do not live with my parents?</p>
<p>I believe that unless one is married or is in the military, one is considered for financial aid purposes a dependent of your parents. This is true even if one is living away from home and working full time. However, do check with the colleges financial aid offices since they would be the experts. </p>
<p>Also check into whether your excellent gpa would help you qualify for merit aid if you transfer to in state public universities.</p>
<p>Yes, your parents' financials will be taken into consideration, regardless of whether they are willing to pay. With certain exceptions (marriage, military and veteran's status being three), you are considered a dependent of your parents until you are 24. Only truly extenuating circumstance (and parental refusal to pay is not one of them) would change this.</p>
<p>You're in luck. If the President signs the College Opportunity and Affordability Act of 2008, you'll be able to EXCLUDE your parent's financial info on the 2009 FAFSA.</p>
<p>Big IF. But many are eagerly awaiting this event.</p>
<p>Where in the College Opportunity and Affordability Act of 2008 does it say you'll be able to exclude parent's financial info on the 2009 FAFSA? I did not see that when I read it. If you can tell me which section number it is under I would appreciate it.</p>