She Strengthens

Breaking Free from Financial Barriers

As I stepped into my college’s financial aid office, anxiety washed over me. I had no idea where to start in explaining my complex financial situation. A kind staff member guided me through the FAFSA renewal process, but when she asked for my parents’ information, I froze. I didn’t have it. I hadn’t spoken to my father in years, and my mother’s whereabouts were unknown. I was on my own, paying my own bills and relying on friends’ families for temporary housing.

The Hidden Lifeline: Dependency Override

What I didn’t know then was that I could apply for financial aid using only my own information, thanks to a little-known provision called Dependency Override. This allows students to declare themselves independent, making their parents’ information unnecessary for financial aid. However, this option is only available for students with special circumstances, such as:

• Incarcerated parents
• Fleeing an abusive parent or guardian
• Unknown parental whereabouts
• Being an unaccompanied youth at risk of homelessness
• Experiencing a combination of these circumstances

Navigating the Application Process

To apply for Dependency Override, you’ll need to submit paperwork every year with your FAFSA, proving that your situation is ongoing. The required documents may vary depending on your institution, but typically include:

• Tax records from the previous year
• Institution-specific Dependency Override forms
• A written statement detailing your struggles and reasons for applying
• Three written statements corroborating your situation from trusted individuals, such as family friends, psychologists, or professors

The Financial Implications

While being granted Dependency Override provided me with additional federal grant money, it wasn’t enough to cover the cost of attending a private institution. Instead, it allowed me to max out my federal loans, which has left me with significant student loan debt. However, without this option, I wouldn’t have been able to complete my degree.

You Are Not Alone

If you’re struggling to navigate college on your own, I urge you to reach out to your financial aid office about Dependency Override. Don’t be afraid to seek help from your campus counseling center, either. Remember that you have options and are not alone in this journey. Equip yourself with the tools to stay financially, physically, and mentally resilient, and know that you will get through this.