Who is eligible to be classified as an Independent Student?

Generally, to be classified as an Independent Student, the applicant must be 24 years old by January 1 of the year the account is opened. There are exceptions for orphans, certain emancipated minors, certain unaccompanied youths, students with a dependent, veterans, graduate or professional students, veterans and married students. In all cases, an Independent student must be 18 years or older to open an account.