Do I have to Include Parental Information?

Self-Supporting (Independent) Student Definition

2007-2008 Financial Aid Year

Does one of the following conditions apply to you?

You were born before January 1, 1984.
You are married.
You have children who receive more than half of their support from you.
You have dependents (other than your children or spouse) who live with you and who receive more than half of their support from you, now through June 30, 2008.
Both parents are deceased or you are (or were until age 18) a ward/dependent of the court.
You are currently serving on active duty in the US Armed Forces for purposes other than training.
You are a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces.

If So . . . according to Federal regulations, you automatically are considered self-supporting (not dependent upon parents/legal guardians). Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). (opens in a new window)

If Not . . . you still may be self-supporting if All of the following apply to you:

You have not resided with your parents for the entire calendar years of 2005 and 2006 nor do you live with them currently.
You are not currently covered under your parent(s) or legal guardian(s) medical insurance currently nor were you for the entire calendar years of 2005 and 2006.
You had resources (taxable, non-taxable and student financial aid) of a minimum $8,200 in 2005 and $8,450 in 2006 (loans and gifts from family and friends cannot be included).
Your parent(s) or legal guardian(s) did not claim you as a tax exemption for 2005 or 2006.

If all four (4) conditions apply to you, please provide the NMC Financial Aid Office with all of the following:

Copy of your current driver's license or Michigan Personal Identification Card
Written verification from your parent(s) or legal guardian(s) medical insurance company of family members covered for 2005, 2006, and currently
Signed copy of your 2005 and 2006 IRS tax returns (including all schedules)
Signed copy of your parent(s) or legal guardian(s) 2005 and 2006 IRS tax returns (including all schedules)

Your dependency status will be determined after receipt of all documents. Please contact our office for an appointment to review the documentation.

Mitigating Circumstances

If an unusual situation exists (i.e. separated/divorced student under 24 years, and made under $8,450), please contact our office to schedule an appointment.

Financial Aid Office
Northwestern Michigan College
1701 E Front Street
Traverse City MI 49686-3061
(231) 995.1035 Fax: (231) 995.1570