On the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you indicated that you were an orphan, ward of the court, or were in foster care. You will need to provide additional documentation before we can continue to process your financial aid.

Action Required

Please determine which of the following situations below applies to you:

• If you are an orphan and were not adopted prior to turning 13, please provide death certificates for both of your parents.
• If you are a ward of the court provide the court document that shows that you were a ward of the court after age 13 in the state of your legal residence.
• If you were in foster care please provide the court document that shows that you were in foster care after age 13. 

What if I have lost my court documents?

Copies of documents may be obtained from your caseworker if you no longer have them.

What if I made a mistake and I was not a ward of the court or in foster care?

You will need to correct your answer on the FAFSA about being an orphan, ward of the court, or in foster care to “No” and add your parent(s)’ information and signature(s) for your FAFSA to be official.

What if I have unusual circumstances concerning the relationship with my parents?

If you have unusual circumstances and wish to be considered an independent student for financial aid purposes, you have the option of providing additional information if you wish to request a dependency override.