Interactive Unaccompanied Homeless Youth Determination Tool
Use this tool to determine if you qualify as independent on the FAFSA as an unaccompanied homeless youth.
A student’s dependency status on the FAFSA determines whether or not they are required to report parent information. Dependent students are required to report parent information, and independent students are not required to report parent information. Most students under the age of 24 are considered dependent by default, but there are a few exceptions, such as students who are unaccompanied and homeless, or who are unaccompanied, self-supporting, and at risk of homelessness.
Answer the questions below to determine if you qualify as independent on the FAFSA as an unaccompanied homeless youth and receive instructions on your next steps to applying for financial aid.
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Have any financial aid questions or feedback about this tool? Contact Caleb McKay.
Important Definitions:
- Unaccompanied—when a student is not living in the physical custody of a parent or guardian.
- Homeless—lacking fixed, regular, and adequate housing.
- At risk of being homeless—when a student’s housing may cease to be fixed, regular, and adequate; for example, a student who is being evicted or has been asked to leave their current residence and has been unable to find fixed, regular, and adequate housing.
- Self-supporting—when a student pays for his or her own living expenses, which includes paying for fixed, regular, and adequate housing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you are filling out the FAFSA for the first time or as a returning student, this page includes a video walkthrough and written, step-by-step instructions on how to answer the questions correctly.
Our Tips for Preparing for an Independent Financial Aid Interview page can help you.
Our Financial Aid ID Verification Resource explains what verification is, and what steps you can take if you’re selected. We also provide resources to help you obtain a government-issued photo ID.