Truthfully respond "yes" to at least one of the questions numbered 48 through 60 on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). These questions establish whether the student is considered an independent and is therefore not required to provide parental financial information for purposes of calculating financial aid.
Provide proof of independent status. Be prepared to provide documentation (copies of documents such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate or military discharge papers) to support your claim of independent status in case your application is selected for verification.
Describe any unique special circumstances by communicating directly with the financial aid office of the school you wish to attend. The financial aid officers can determine whether your case qualifies as a special circumstance even if you cannot provide all the documentation necessary for the FAFSA form.