Self sufficient students should be given "independent" status when filing the FAFSA. Right now to be deemed "independent" for financial aid reasons one must meet one of the following requirements: age 24 or older, an orphan or ward of the court until 18, a veteran of the Armed Forces, a graduate or professional student, currently married, or has a legal dependent other than a spouse. Young adults that do not meet those requirements get aid based on parental and student income combined even if the student is completely self-sufficient living on their own. This prevents the student from receiving financial aid that truly may be needed. Changes must be made so that students get the help they need to further their education.
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