FAFSA for nursing students based on parents?

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Hello all,

I have a question about the fafsa form. I am an independent, and the IRS can tell how great my need is based on this status. Therefore, I would prefer not to disclose financial information about my parents.

However, on the form it says that some students, such as nursing students, may wish to disclose their parents info.

Anyone know how or why a nursing student get more financial aid by disclosing their parents information? I was hoping to get more $ by not giving any parental information.

Any input is appreciated as I rush to finish the forms.

Thank you!

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Specializes in critical care.

Not sure why the website says that. Are you 24 or older? If you're under 24, you're required to submit your parents info, even if you're considered independent for tax purposes.

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Specializes in ICU.

I am not sure why either, however, I never fill mine out and I don't think I have suffered. I could only imagine it is for data collection purposes? I wouldn't waste your time, it wont make a difference.

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I am 24! And independent on the taxes, I have a bachelor's, but am a "dislocated worker", as in, my employer is going under.

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Wait once you get your 4 year degree you no longer get financial aid...probably just loans and hardly that. My sister is in grad school and they told her you dont get grants etc. anymore. So how do you still get financial aid?

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Specializes in critical care.

That's true, uhohbube. I'm in a 2nd degree program and I was only eligible for loans. The gov't will still give you the same amount of loans (max $12,500/year), with the amount of subsidized vs. unsubsidized loans depending on the expected financial contribution they calculate from your FAFSA.

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Specializes in Med/Surg, Academics.

Clarifying definitions here: Financial aid includes loans. Anything that helps you pay for college, whether you must pay it back or not, is considered financial aid.

Everyone seeking financial aid (including loans) must complete the FAFSA each academic year.

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ktliz said:
Not sure why the website says that. Are you 24 or older? If you're under 24, you're required to submit your parents info, even if you're considered independent for tax purposes.

That is not always the case. I am 22, and I do not put anything on my FAFSA about my parents.

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KareBear0609 said:
That is not always the case. I am 22, and I do not put anything on my FAFSA about my parents.

Well yes, if you are under 24 and you are married or have a child then you would be considered an Independent. Also, if you were emancipated, or a foster child. Although, I could be wrong?

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I have not listed my parents for the last 2 year (I am 25). Although It doesn't really affect me either way my EFC is still 0 with or without them.

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dudette10 said:
Clarifying definitions here: Financial aid includes loans. Anything that helps you pay for college, whether you must pay it back or not, is considered financial aid.

Everyone seeking financial aid (including loans) must complete the FAFSA each academic year.

I was just going to state the same. Thanks, Dudette.

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Specializes in Electrophysiology, Medical-Surgical ICU.

I always wondered why it said that I'm independent anyways...but call them and ask why 1-800-433-3243

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