If you have the stats (which are?), lock down an automatic full ride safety from the list linked in #13 . Be aware that some may have early application deadlines for the scholarships.
For FAFSA and federal student aid, here is how your dependent/independent status is determined:https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/fafsa/filling-out/dependency
Pay particular attention to these questions:
At any time since you turned age 13, were both your parents deceased, were you in foster care, or were you a dependent or ward of the court?
Has it been determined by a court in your state of legal residence that you are an emancipated minor or that you are in a legal guardianship?
At any time on or after July 1, 2014, were you determined to be an unaccompanied youth who was homeless or were self-supporting and at risk of being homeless, as determined by (a) your high school or district homeless liaison, (b) the director of an emergency shelter or transitional housing program funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, or (c) the director of a runaway or homeless youth basic center or transitional living program?**
Of course, schools using CSS Profile may have other tests beyond the federal student aid tests.