Do independent students get more financial aid?

In contrast, independent students are not required to include their parents' financial information in their FAFSA application. This means that their SAI is based solely on their own income and assets, which can lead to a lower SAI and potentially higher levels of financial aid.

It's important to note that while independent students may be more likely to receive more funding from the FAFSA, there are other factors that can also affect aid eligibility and amount. These include the student's enrollment status, cost of attendance, and the availability of funds at the time of application.

When it comes to financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), there is a common misconception that independent students automatically receive more money than dependent students. However, the reality is more nuanced.

Additionally, there are other sources of financial aid available to both independent and dependent students, such as scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. It's always a good idea to explore all available options to maximize financial aid and reduce the burden of student debt.

Generally speaking, independent students may indeed receive more funding from the FAFSA. This is primarily due to the fact that their Student Aid Index (SAI) is often lower than that of dependent students. The SAI is a measure used to determine eligibility for federal student aid and takes into account various factors, including family income and assets.