<p>Actually, the school can request whatever they want in the case of separation. Since OP’s school questioned why she is separated but filing jointly, and since she said she has the separation agreement, I suggested submitting that as proof of her status. </p>
<p>Some schools are a lot pickier than others about separation. Those schools with more money to award are going to be wary of “separation” that is not legal. They may request proof of separate residences, formal agreements, etc. - and some may still require the spouse’s info be reported if the separation is not actually formal. This is one of those gray areas where schools may interpret regulations differently.</p>