Non-traditional student questions

Paying for College
1

<p>I was confused about the CSS profile with my parents. I am 35 and my father is deceased and mother is retired. She really doesn't have much money and lives off of her meager retirement. I am curious as to why CSS needs parents info for someone like myself? I called Vanderbilt and the financial aid rep who I spoke with said I did not need it if I was an independent student. She also sounded very busy and very uninterested in what I was asking. I understand this is a very stressful and busy time for financial aid offices, and I felt as though she was just trying to get me off of the phone. Anyone have any insight into this subject? I was hoping to have 100% of my financial needs met at Vanderbilt.</p>

<p>thanks ahead of time!</p>

2

<p>If you are 35, you should be considered an independent student. Re-read the instructions for the Profile, and see where you went wrong.</p>

3

<p>nope, re-read it and it still asks me the same thing. I look under the help desk and it tells me that even though I am independent some schools still want to know my parents situation to determine if they can help with costs. It seems strange to me.</p>

4

<p>It is mighty strange. </p>

<p>All you can do is ask the places where you are applying whether or not they do need your parents’ information. Vanderbilt may not.</p>