Special FAFSA Info for Foster Youth & Orphans

If You’ve Been in Foster Care, a Ward of the Court, or Lost Your Parents

If you were in foster care, a ward of the court, or lost both parents after age 13, you may qualify as an independent student on the FAFSA—no parent info required.

What the FAFSA Asks:

  • “At any time since you turned age 13, were both your parents deceased, were you in foster care, or were you a dependent or ward of the court?”

Answering "Yes" to this question classifies you as an independent student, meaning you're not required to provide parental financial information on your FAFSA.

Definitions

  • Orphan: Both biological or adoptive parents were deceased at any time after you turned 13. This status remains even if you were later adopted.
  • Foster Care: You were placed in foster care at any time after age 13, regardless of whether you left (exited) the system before adulthood.
  • Ward of the Court: A court assumed legal custody of you after age 13. This does not include situations where the court's authority was limited, and your parents retained legal custody.

Note: Being incarcerated or having a legal guardian appointed by parental consent does not qualify as being a ward of the court for FAFSA purposes.

Documentation

If your school requests verification, acceptable documentation may include:

  • Court orders or official state documentation indicating foster care placement or ward of the court status after age 13.
  • Statements or verifiable data from state, county, or tribal agencies administering foster care programs.
  • Verification of eligibility for the John H. Chafee Foster Care Program for Education and Training Vouchers.
  • Statements from attorneys, guardians ad litem, or Court Appointed Special Advocates.

Important Considerations

  • If you were adopted after age 13, you still qualify as independent.
  • If you were in foster care or a ward of the court before age 13 but not after, you do not qualify under this criterion.

Need Help?

  • If you're unsure about your status or how to answer this question, contact the financial aid office. We can provide guidance based on your specific circumstances.

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