<p>Hi everyone.</p>
<p>I have a burning question concerning Brandeis that must be answered by someone in the know. If I file the FAFSA right now, I am a dependent student even though my parents refuse to pay for my education. Because of their income, I do not qualify for financial aid. However, I have a modest inheritance (which happens to be hidden in the name of the lawyer who manages it) that – if accepted to Deis – I am planning on using to pay for my college expenses. </p>
<p>However, between now and April, the transfer app. deadline, it is entirely possible that I will fall into the category of independent student and, should I file the FAFSA, become eligible for quite a bit of financial aid. </p>
<p>My question is, knowing Deis is not a need-blind institution, which option would best bolster my chances of getting accepted? I certainly do not want them to look at my FAFSA, see “independent student,” and throw my app. in the trash.</p>