<p>There is no requirement that the parent(s) pay U.S. Federal income tax in order for their child to receive Federal Financial aid. The only requirement is that the student is a U.S. citizen and have a valid social security number. You must, however, show all earned income and any taxes paid to a foreign government on the FAFSA (see: [Completing</a> the FAFSA 07-08/The Application Questions(32-47)](<a href=“http://www.studentaid.ed.gov/students/publications/completing_fafsa/2007_2008/ques3.html]Completing”>http://www.studentaid.ed.gov/students/publications/completing_fafsa/2007_2008/ques3.html))</p>
<p>I would suggest that the original poster also see if she can work with a member of the Overseas Association for College Admissions Counseling, as they would be familiar with the in’s and out’s of these sorts of questions, and can help advise her and her children on US application procedures. You can get a list of OCAC members by contacting them through: [::</a> OACAC](<a href=“http://www.oacac.com/]::”>http://www.oacac.com/)</p>