What does it take to be considered an independent student?

You must be able to answer YES to at least one of the following: 

1. Were you born before January 1, l985? 
2. As of today, are you married? (Answer "YES" if you are separated but not divorced) 
3. Do you have any children who receive more than half of their support from you? 
4. Do you have dependents (other than your children or spouse) who live with you and who receive more than half of their support from you, now and through June 30, 2008? 
5. Are you an orphan or ward of the court or were you a ward of the court until age 18? 
6. Are you a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces? 

If my parents are divorced or separated, which parent should provide the information required to apply for aid?

Answer the questions about the parent you lived with more during the past 12 months. (If you did not live with one parent more than the other, give answers about the parent who provided more financial support during the past 12 months, or during the most recent year that you actually received support from a parent) If this parent has remarried as of today, answer the questions about that parent and the person whom your parent married. (your step-parent)

What if I can't get my parents information?

Unless you meet the independence criteria on the FAFSA, undergraduate students are required to provide parental information on the FAFSA. 

What if I withdraw? How will it affect me?

Withdrawing from classes will affect you either in the current semester or in the future. You should think very carefully about your decision and speak with an Advisor before making any decisions. Please view our Catalog to review possible affects.

What if my family's financial circumstances change after  I apply?

If there is a drastic change to your and/or your families financial circumstances, submit a Special Circumstances Application.

Can I receive financial aid during the Summer?

Yes. If you plan to attend Summer classes, please complete a Summer  Financial Aid Application (Available about March 15, 2009).

Can I receive financial aid for the Winter session?

There is some financial aid available.  Contact the Financial Aid Office. 

Can I receive financial aid for study abroad?

Yes, you can. Contact the Office of International Education or by phone at 315-312-5775. 

Can I receive financial aid as a part-time student?

Yes. Please check our Applying for Financial Aid and our Types of Financial Aid pages to check what you may be eligible for.

What if I am part-time? Do I need any other forms?

You may. Please check our Applying for Financial Aid page for more information.