To determine dependent or independent status, answer the questions below. If a student can meet one or more of the criteria below, s/he is considered an independent student and does not have to provide any parental information to the Office of Student Financial Assistance.

• Born before January 1, 1984.
• A veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces.
• Enrolled in a graduate or professional program (beyond a bachelor's degree).
• Married.
• An orphan or a ward of the court or a ward of the court until age 18.
• Have legal dependents other than a spouse.

MassArt's Office of Student Financial Assistance strictly adheres to the regulations concerning dependent/independent student status. In rare or exceptional cases, the office can grant dependency overrides. A student with an exceptional case should contact the Director of Student Financial Assistance and submit documentation to support his/her individual situation.