<p>I'm paying my own way through college and Cornell is very expensive; however, my father makes a six figure salary each year and I'm worried that I will not get the aid that I need to attend this school. My father is not paying for my undergraduate education, so please do not ask why he's not paying when he makes six figures. My stats are comparable to other individuals trying to apply to Cornell University, but this is not a stats thread. I'm really concerned that if, by chance, I DO get accepted to Cornell, I will not be able to afford it. Any advice is greatly appreciated. Thank you.</p>
<p>The financial aid calculator is a good indication on the amount of f/a you will receive. Unless you are declared an independent student your parents must fill out the CSS/fafsa and supply tax returns. Your parents income will be considered into any aid you may receive. There are third party student loans available to cover college costs. The interest rates are fairly high and you may be burdened with paying them back for many years after graduation. The cost of college and how to pay for it is a very large decision on a family. Good luck. </p>
<p>If my parents are not paying, can I declare myself an independent student on the CSS/FAFSA?</p>
<p>I don’t think it is that easy. Here is an article with some info on what the colleges consider an “independant student”.
<a href=“http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/07/22/how-to-declare-your-independence-for-student-financial-aid/”>Stock Portfolio & Tracker - Yahoo Finance;
<p>If you are an independent student, your parents can no longer deduct you as a dependent on their income tax. I do not believe that they can provide you health insurance. You would need to have established your own residence. It gets very complicated. </p>