Filling Out the FAFSA: I Am Legally Emancipated

Legally emancipated students don't have to include their parents’ financial information on the FAFSA.

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When can I submit my FAFSA application? The FAFSA for the 2025-26 academic year is now open for all students. FAFSA applications for the current academic year, 2024-25, can be submitted until June 30, 2025.

If you are (or were) an emancipated minor, as determined by a court, your parents do not need to contribute their financial information to your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You are considered an independent student for financial aid purposes.

There's some fine print for students in this situation:

  • You must be emancipated as of the day you submit the FAFSA, or emancipated immediately before you turned 18.

  • You also must currently live in the state in which you were emancipated by a court.

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Steps for filling out the FAFSA for emancipated minors

  1. Request an FSA ID, which is the username and password you'll use to access your FAFSA form.

  2. Consent to a direct data transfer from the IRS to import your financial and tax information.

  3. Check “yes” for this question: "As determined by a court in your state of legal residence, are you or were you an emancipated minor?".

  4. Report any financial support received from legal guardians or foster parents as personal income.

  5. Contact your university’s financial aid office and explain your situation; see if they have university-specific advice or protocols. They may ask for proof of the court's decision, for example.

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