At Risk Homelessness/Unaccompanied Youth
At Risk Homelessness/Unaccompanied Youth
FAFSA Question Example:
“At any time on or after July 1, 2024, was the student unaccompanied and either (1) homeless or (2) self-supporting and at risk of being homeless?”
- Note: This example is for the 2025-2026 FAFSA. So the 2026-2027 FAFSA would ask anytime on or after July 1, 2025.
Definitions:
- Unaccompanied: Not living in the physical custody of a parent or guardian.
- Homeless: Lacking fixed, regular, and adequate housing. This includes situations such as living in shelters, motels, cars, or temporarily with others due to loss of housing.
- At risk of being homeless: When a student's housing may cease to be fixed, regular, and adequate. For example, being evicted or being asked to leave a current residence without a stable alternative.
Next Steps:
If you answer "Yes" to this question, the FAFSA will prompt you to indicate if a determination was made by:
- A high school or school district homeless liaison
- The director of an emergency or transitional shelter, or a homeless youth center
- The director of a federal TRIO or GEAR UP program
- A financial aid administrator at your college
If you lack documentation from these sources, you can still be considered for independent status by discussing your circumstances with your school's financial aid office. They may conduct an interview to determine your status.
It's important to answer this question accurately, as it can impact your eligibility for financial aid.