FASFA "Independent" student -- questions about parents

[caitlinb]

Hi all,

I filled out my FASFA and since I am considered an independent student it does not require me to provide information about my parents. However, it then suggests if you are a health profession student that you may want to answer the questions.

 

Does any one know why this is or what advantage it provides to provide parental information instead of just being an independent? I assume most have been there, done that so any guidance is welcome.

Thanks!

[flyingsquirrel]

I just answered this question here.

[jlumsden]

The link doesn't seem to be working.  Can you repost?

[EMEDPA]

if your parents are wealthy you probably want to apply independent. if they are not, or you have mmultiple siblings, you may want to list them.

[Pre_PA]

I've had this question too- I'm pretty sure that you are independent either way (regardless of what you enter about your parents) so my question would be how do they use this information?

[Z PA-C]

Some schools give you loans/scholarship based on parental income/household size. Putting in this data does not effect your EFC since you are still independent. Basically it can only help you not hurt you.