<p>When you apply to grad school, are you automatically considered "independent"? What if you are still living home or having parental help in paying loans?
I ask in part because a grad student was telling me he got more in stipend/loans because he was independent and another one told me he's still on his parents income tax as a dependent (21yrs old) and they help him pay for his housing.
Does it vary case by case?</p>
<p>For FAFSA you are independent if you are going to grad school. Doesn’t matter whether your parents claim you on taxes or not.</p>
<p>Dependent for FAFSA and dependent for taxes are 2 completely different things.</p>
<p>I believe that once you complete your bachelor’s, FAFSA considers you an independent in terms of eligibility for federal student aid. Your FAFSA status is independent of whether or not your parents can claim you as a dependent on their taxes.</p>
<p>But you should be aware that many private universities (and some public ones) may still require (and use) your parents’ financial information when computing your FA. It depends upon the school’s policy.</p>
<p>Thanks, that’s good to know, didn’t think it would be easier now. : P</p>