Independent Student (mainly a Cornell app. question)

Paying for College
1

<p>Hello everyone,</p>

<p>I'm 27 years old. I haven't been claimed as a dependent since I was 21. I have not received more than $750 from my parent(s) in the last 4 years. My father is deceased.</p>

<p>These are all requirements that I meet for Cornell's Independent status as checklisted in their application. However, there is another requirement that is getting me worried. Final requirement: "I have not resided, and will not reside, at my parents' home for more than a total of six weeks in calendar years 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006"</p>

<p>That one is tricky. See I have been renting a cottage (at $600 per month) from my parents (more recently just my mother since my father passed away) for the past 4 years. The cottage is on our house property, but it is completely seperated from the house.</p>

<p>There's no way in hell my Mom is gonna help me pay for school, so if I get seen as a dependent I think I am gonna be doomed. So, am I doomed?</p>

<p>Thanks for any help.</p>

2

<p>I don't think it's considered living at your parents house if you've been renting from them.. so i'd put independent if i were you!</p>

<p>Or.. you could always email your local cornell rep and ask them.. that's probably more reliable than anyone on CC</p>